Memory & Learning

Must-know informationabout what memory isand how it works, asdefined by the experts.

Bob Gottfried, PhDACE Clinics

Bob Gottfried

What is Memory?

Memory refers to the way inwhich your mind stores,organizes, and accessesinformation. Cognitivepsychologists often simplydefine it as "the process ofretaining information overtime."The most important part ofimproving our memory is tounderstand how it work.

How Does It Work?

Studies indicate that creatingand retrieving memories is acomplex, multi-facetedprocess. Memories consist ofelectrical signals fired byneurons in the brain in apurposeful order.The memory creationprocess includes perception,in which your brain receivesdata and stores only what itidentifies as significant.

A Variety of Types

Experts consider memorywithin a larger framework ofdifferent categories. Each ofthese types refers to howyour brain stores differentkinds of information invarying ways. However, theyall work together to formnew memories.

Short-Term Memory

This memory capturesevents that have happenedin the very near past and arenow available for immediaterecollection. Individuals whostruggle with short-termmemory problems canremember details from thedistant past, but would havea difficult time recallingthings that happened a fewminutes, hours, or days ago.

Working Memory

This type of memory refersto your brain's system ofstoring data used tocomplete certain cognitivetasks, such as learning,reasoning, andcomprehension. As a result,improving your workingmemory can result in muchmore success in many ofyour personal, academic,and professional endeavors.

Implicit Memory

This form of memoryenables you to rapidly andunconsciously recall eventsin the past. One of the morewell-known subcategories ofthis type is called proceduralmemory. Athletes often haveparticularly excellentprocedural memory, hencetheir ability to excel at aspecific motor skill withoutthinking about it.

Explicit Memory

Sometimes called declarativememory, this type concernsyour ability to recallinformation with consciouseffort. This includes things likemaking yourself rememberwhat to purchase at the storeafter you forget the list athome or remembering theanswer to a specific questionafter some concerted effortwhen taking an exam.

Episodic Memory

This category of memoryenables your to recall detailsregarding specific events ortemporal "episodes" of yourlife. This includes things likewhat happened, who wasthere, and how you felt. Theemotional component ofthese memories can beparticularly poignant.

How Do We Learn?

Memories form as the brainestablishes neuropathways.Using your five sense, themind sorts out and identifieswhat is important enough toremember. Working withmultiple senses and differenttypes of memory can helpyou learn more effectively.Everyone learns differently, sotake time to discover whatcombination of inputs is moreeffective for you.

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