SketchyMedical

Sketchy is an online learning platform that uses visual mnemonics and storytelling techniques to help medical students memorize complex information. The company's core product, Sketchy Medical, covers a wide range of preclinical and clinical topics including microbiology, pharmacology, pathology, anatomy, physiology, and more. Each lesson consists of a short animated video (typically 8-10 minutes long) that presents medical concepts through creative visual stories and memory hooks. The videos use recurring symbols and themes to reinforce key ideas across different topics.

Sketchy's method is based on the "memory palace" technique, which leverages visual associations to improve information retention. Research has shown this approach can increase long-term memory retention significantly. In addition to the animated videos, Sketchy provides review cards, quizzes, and other study tools to help reinforce learning. The platform is designed to complement medical school curricula and help students prepare for board exams like the USMLE.

As of 2024, Sketchy offers content for various healthcare fields beyond just medicine, including programs for nursing, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, and MCAT preparation. The company has expanded its offerings over time, adding new subjects and clinical content to cover topics relevant for shelf exams and clinical rotations. Sketchy's platform is web-based and allows students to track their progress, create custom playlists, and study at their own pace.

Key customers and partnerships

Sketchy's primary customers are medical students and other healthcare professional students preparing for board exams and clinical practice. As of 2024, tens of thousands of students use the platform. Sketchy has partnerships with over 50 medical schools to provide group access to their content. The company also collaborates with other medical education resources - for example, Sketchy lessons can be integrated with Anki flashcards through a free add-on.