Memory, Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making Terms

Encoding

The process of converting information into a format that can be stored in memory.

Storage

The retention of encoded information over time.

Retrieval

The process of accessing and bringing into consciousness information stored in memory.

Short-term memory

A limited-capacity system that temporarily holds information.

Long-term memory

A more permanent storage system for information.

Working memory

A system that temporarily holds and manipulates information for cognitive tasks.

Chunking

A strategy that involves grouping items into larger units to enhance memory retention.

Rehearsal

The mental process of reviewing information to retain it in memory.

Episodic memory

A type of long-term memory that involves the recollection of specific events or experiences.

Semantic memory

A type of long-term memory that involves facts and general knowledge.

Cognition

The mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge and understanding.

Concept

A mental grouping of similar objects, events, ideas, or people.

Schema

A cognitive framework that helps organize and interpret information.

Heuristic

A mental shortcut that facilitates problem-solving and decision-making.

Deductive reasoning

A logical process where conclusions follow from general principles.

Inductive reasoning

A reasoning process that involves forming generalizations based on specific observations.

Cognitive bias

Systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment.

Metacognition

Awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes.

Insight

A sudden realization of a problem's solution, often occurring after a period of contemplation.

Problem space

The set of possible states and actions that can be taken to solve a problem.

Algorithm

A step-by-step procedure that guarantees a solution to a problem.

Trial and error

A problem-solving method involving repeated attempts until a successful outcome is achieved.

Functional fixedness

A cognitive bias that limits a person's ability to use an object only in the way it is traditionally used.

Divergent thinking

A thought process that generates creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions.

Convergent thinking

A thought process that involves finding a single best solution to a problem.

Decision-making process

The steps taken to identify and choose among alternatives.

Rational decision-making

A systematic approach to decision-making that emphasizes logical reasoning.

Intuitive decision-making

A process that relies on gut feelings or instinct rather than systematic analysis.

Risk assessment

The identification and analysis of potential issues that could negatively impact key business initiatives or projects.

Cost-benefit analysis

A process of comparing the costs and benefits of different choices.

Confirmation bias

The tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information that confirms one's preconceptions.

Framing effect

The way information is presented, which can influence decision-making.

Loss aversion

The tendency to prefer avoiding losses rather than acquiring equivalent gains.

Overconfidence bias

The tendency to overestimate one's own abilities or knowledge.

Sunk cost fallacy

The decision-making bias that leads individuals to continue an endeavor once an investment in money, effort, or time has been made.

Cognitive load

The total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory.

Attention

The cognitive process of selectively focusing on specific information while ignoring other stimuli.

Insight learning

A form of problem-solving characterized by a sudden realization of a solution.

Analogical reasoning

The process of finding similarities between new and familiar situations to solve problems.

Self-regulation

The ability to control one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the face of temptations and impulses.