Memory 101

Memory, or the storage on information, can be summarized into 4 key groups: procedural, declarative, short-term, and sensory. This article will describe each group, its function, and how it applies to our everyday life.

Procedural memory, or long-term memory, assists in habitual muscle memory. Tasks like riding a bike, tying shoes, or typing on a keyboard are stored in procedural memory. We perform the actions unconsciously, thus allowing us to carry out routine activities without active thought.Through practice, these skills become automatic and easily replicable. Each repetition strengthens the neural pathways involved, inherently enhancing the habit. Procedural memory performs complex actions easily, streamlining everyday functioning.

Another type of long-term memory is declarative memory. This strain of memory handles the conscious recall of information, such as facts, events, or knowledge. It’s two main subtypes, episodic and semantic memory, separate personal and academic information respectively. Episodic memory refers to personal experiences and events, tying to specific times and places. Semantic memory, on the other hand, encompasses general knowledge and facts. These two divisions separate the information, making them easily accessible and organized within the brain.

Short-term memory, or working memory, is a temporary information system where active or processing thoughts reside. Normally, with the short-term memory, the information can be retained and manipulated around 15-30 seconds, unless we actively rehearse or maintain it. This type of memory is crucial for tasks like problem-solving, learning, and comprehension, as it enables us to keep relevant information readily accessible during cognitive activities.

Sensory memory is the initial, brief storage of sensory information, such as sights, sounds, smells, and tactile sensations, immediately after they are perceived. It captures an accurate but fleeting snapshot of the sensory input, lasting only for milliseconds to a few seconds. This form of memory acts as a buffer, holding onto the raw sensory data long enough for the brain to process and decide whether to transfer it to short-term memory for further use. Sensory memory is essential for allowing us to experience the world as a continuous flow of information rather than as disjointed stimuli.