How to recover deleted anki cards？

Anki is a powerful tool for learning and memorization, employing a spaced repetition system to help users retain information effectively. However, losing valuable cards can be frustrating. Whether due to accidental deletion, syncing issues, or software glitches, understanding how to recover deleted Anki cards is essential for users who want to preserve their study materials.

1. Anki’s Structure

Before diving into recovery methods, it’s crucial to understand how Anki stores data.

1.1 Database Overview

Anki uses a SQLite database to store your decks, cards, and settings. This database is typically stored in a file called collection.anki2. located in the Anki folder on your computer.

1.2 Decks and Cards

Anki organizes cards into decks, and each card is associated with a specific note type. Understanding this structure can aid in recovery processes.

2. Common Causes of Card Deletion

Identifying how cards are deleted can help you choose the right recovery method.

2.1 Accidental Deletion

Users may accidentally delete cards while managing their decks.

2.2 Syncing Issues

Syncing Anki with AnkiWeb can sometimes result in lost cards if there are discrepancies between local and online versions.

2.3 Corrupt Database

Corruption in the database file can lead to card loss.

3. Methods for Recovering Deleted Anki Cards

3.1 Using Anki’s Built-in Features

3.1.1 Undo Function

Steps:

Open Anki.

Navigate to the deck where the card was deleted.

Click “Edit” and then select “Undo” (or press Ctrl + Z on Windows or Cmd + Z on Mac).

Repeat until the deleted card is restored.

Note: This method only works immediately after deletion.

3.1.2 Browse Feature

Steps:

Open Anki and click on the “Browse” button.

In the search bar, type is:deleted to find any deleted cards.

Select the card(s) you wish to restore.

Right-click and choose “Toggle Deleted”.

Tip: This method allows you to recover cards that were marked as deleted but not permanently removed from the database.

3.2 Restoring from Backups

3.2.1 Automatic Backups

Anki automatically creates backups of your collection at specified intervals.

Steps:

Locate the backup folder, usually found in your Anki data directory.

On Windows: C:\Users\\Documents\Anki\backups

On Mac: ~/Documents/Anki/backups

Find the most recent backup file (collection.anki2).

Close Anki.

Rename your current collection.anki2 file to something like collection_old.anki2.

Copy the backup file and rename it to collection.anki2.

Open Anki to see if your cards have been restored.

Important: This method will revert all changes made after the backup was created.

3.2.2 Manual Backups

If you have previously exported your decks or created manual backups, you can restore from those.

Steps:

Open Anki and click on “File” then “Import”.

Locate the exported deck file (.apkg) and select it.

Follow the prompts to restore your cards.

3.3 Recovering from AnkiWeb

If you use AnkiWeb for syncing, your deleted cards may still exist in the online version.

Steps:

Log in to AnkiWeb.

Check the version of your decks available there.

If the deleted cards are present, sync them back to your local Anki app.

Note: Be cautious as syncing can overwrite local changes.

4. Preventing Future Loss

4.1 Regular Backups

Make it a habit to regularly back up your Anki data to prevent future losses.

4.2 Using the Export Feature

Regularly export your decks as .apkg files for easy recovery.

Steps:

Open Anki and select the deck.

Click on “File” then “Export”.

Choose the options that suit your needs and save the file.

4.3 Enable AnkiWeb Syncing

Using AnkiWeb not only allows for syncing across devices but also serves as an additional backup.

5. Troubleshooting Recovery Issues

5.1 Database Corruption

If you encounter issues opening Anki after a recovery attempt, your database might be corrupt.

Steps:

Use the “Check Database” feature found under “File”.

Follow the prompts to fix any identified issues.

5.2 Lost Syncing Data

If cards are missing after syncing, consider checking your AnkiWeb account and adjusting settings.

Recovering deleted Anki cards can be a straightforward process if you understand how Anki works and utilize its features effectively. By regularly backing up your data and using the built-in tools, you can minimize the risk of losing valuable study materials.