Structures of memory

Memory

Refers to the mental processes of encoding, storing and retrieving information.

Encoding

Is the process of putting sensory information into a form which can be used and stored in memory. This can be visual, acoustic, or semantic.

Storage

Is the process of holding onto that information over time.

Retrieval

Is the process of getting information out of memory storage in order to use it.

Three types of memory

• Short-term

• Long-term

• Sensory

Sensory memory

The shortest form of memory. It holds information from the senses for just a few seconds until it is processed further.

Short-term memory

Also referred to as working memory, retains information for about 18-20 seconds but can hold only 5-9 items comfortably.

Long-term memory

Long-term memory is a more permanent memory storage system with an essentially unlimited capacity.

Information in long-term memory can be further divided into declarative or explicit memory and non-declarative or implicit memory

Declarative memory

Refers to information that we can consciously remember and describe, such as facts and events. It is further divided into episodic and semantic memory.

Episodic memory

Stores information about personal experiences or specific events in time.

Semantic memory

Saves general knowledge or facts, such as the meanings of words or capital cities. 

Non-declarative memory

Also known as procedural memory, represents our memory for actions and skills that we can perform without conscious thought, such as riding a bike.