Memory
Memory
Some memories are very brief, just seconds long, and allow people to take in
sensory information about the world.
Short-term memories are a bit longer and last about 20 to 30 seconds. These
memories mostly consist of the information people are currently focusing on
and thinking about.
Some memories are capable of enduring much longer lasting days, weeks,
months, or even decades.
Types of Memory
Sensory Memory
Sensory memory is the earliest stage of memory. During this stage, sensory
information from the environment is stored for a very brief period of time,
generally for no longer than a half-second for visual information and three or
four seconds for auditory information.
People only pay attention to certain aspects of this sensory memory. Attending to
sensory memory allows some of this information to pass into the next stage:
short-term memory.
Types of Memory
Short-term Memory
Short-term memory, also known as active memory, is the information we are
currently aware of or thinking about. In Freudian psychology, this memory would
be referred to as the conscious mind. Paying attention to sensory memories
generates information in short-term memory.
This capacity can be stretched somewhat by using memory strategies such as
chunking, which involves grouping related information into smaller chunks.
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Types of Memory
Long-term Memory
Long-term memory refers to the continuing storage of information. In Freudian
psychology, long-term memory would be called the preconscious
and unconscious.
This information is largely outside of our awareness but can be called into
working memory to be used when needed. Some memories are fairly easy to
recall, while others are much more difficult to access.
Why We Forget
Write it down: The act of writing with a pen and paper helps implant the
memory into your brain
Attach meaning to it: You can remember something more easily if you
attach meaning to it.
Repeat it: Repetition helps the memory become encoded beyond your short-
term memory.
Group it: Information that is categorized becomes easier to remember and
recall.
Test yourself: While it may seem like studying and rehearsing information is
the best way to ensure that you will remember it, researchers have found
that being tested on information is actually one of the best ways to improve
recall
Take a mental picture: Systematically trying to make a mental note of
things you often forget
How to Protect Your Memory