Improve your Memory

Types of Memory and how they work

Memory is a complex and multifaceted system with different types that play distinct roles in how we process, store, and retrieve information. Sensory memory captures brief sensory impressions, short-term and working memory handle information temporarily and actively, long-term memory stores information over extended periods, and prospective memory focuses on future tasks and intentions. Each type of memory contributes to our ability to navigate daily life and accomplish tasks effectively.

Understanding different types of memory is essential for grasping how we process, store, and retrieve information.

Sensory Memory

Sensory memory is the very short-term storage of sensory information from the environment. It retains sensory impressions for a brief period, allowing us to process and decide what to focus on.

Examples:

Iconic Memory: This involves visual stimuli. Information is retained for a fraction of a second to a few seconds.

·       Example: When you see a flash of lightning, the afterimage you still “see” for a brief moment is stored in your iconic memory.

Echoic Memory: This involves auditory stimuli. Sounds are retained for about 2-4 seconds.

·       Example: If someone says something to you, and you can still recall the last few words they said even after they’ve stopped talking, you’re using your echoic memory.

Short-Term Memory (STM)

Short-term memory holds information for a short period, usually around 15-30 seconds. It has limited capacity, often described as holding about 7±2 items.

Examples:

Phone Number: When you look up a phone number and keep it in mind long enough to dial it, you’re using your short-term memory. If you don't write it down, it might be forgotten quickly.

Remembering a List: If someone gives you a short list of items to remember for a few minutes, such as a grocery list, you use your short-term memory to recall it.

Working Memory

Working memory is an active form of short-term memory that involves manipulating and using information held temporarily. It is essential for reasoning, learning, and comprehension.

Examples:

Central Executive: This component directs attention and coordinates information from other systems.

·       Example: When solving a math problem, the central executive helps manage and organise the steps involved.

Phonological Loop: This handles verbal and auditory information.

·       Example: Repeating a phone number to yourself to remember it long enough to dial is utilising the phonological loop.

Visuospatial Sketchpad: This manages visual and spatial information.

·       Example: Mentally visualising a map to find a route to a destination involves the visuospatial sketchpad.

Episodic Buffer: This integrates information from various sources into a coherent episode or event.

·       Example: Remembering a conversation and the context in which it happened combines auditory details and situational context.

Long-Term Memory (LTM)

Long-term memory stores information for extended periods, from hours to a lifetime. It has a virtually unlimited capacity and includes various types of memories.

Examples:

Explicit Memory (Declarative Memory): This involves conscious recollection of facts and events.

Semantic Memory: Stores factual information and general knowledge.

·       Example: Knowing that Paris is the capital of France is a semantic memory.

Episodic Memory: Stores personal experiences and specific events.

·       Example: Remembering your last birthday party and the people who attended is an episodic memory.

Implicit Memory (Non-Declarative Memory): This involves unconscious memory that influences behaviour and skills without conscious awareness.

·       Example: Knowing how to ride a bicycle or play a musical instrument involves procedural memory.

Priming: Involves being influenced by previous exposure to stimuli, affecting future behaviour or perception.

·       Example: Seeing a commercial for a product might make you more likely to buy it later, even if you don’t remember the commercial explicitly.

Conditioned Responses: Involves learned associations between stimuli and responses.

·       Example: Feeling anxious when hearing a dentist’s drill because of past negative experiences involves conditioned responses.

Prospective Memory

Prospective memory involves remembering to perform a planned action or recall a future intention.

Examples:

·       Remembering Appointments: Keeping track of a doctor’s appointment or a meeting.

·       Daily Tasks: Remembering to take medication at a specific time or to send a follow-up email after a meeting.

Autobiographical Memory

Autobiographical memory is a type of episodic memory that includes personal experiences and events from one’s life, often encompassing both specific episodes and general life events.

Examples:

·       Life Milestones: Recalling details from significant life events, such as graduating from school or your first job.

·       Personal Stories: Remembering personal anecdotes or family history.