Encoding Memories

encoding

the process and strategies we use to take in information and store it in our long-term memory

visual encoding

Encoding information by the visual elements we observe

acoustic encoding

the different sound elements help with the encoding process

tactile encoding

using the feel of touch when encoding information

organizational encoding

processing information in terms of a specific sequence

elaborative encoding

pairing new information by pairing it with prior information

semantic encoding

you focus on the meaning or context of the information

mnemonic devices

help people remember information more easily by organizing it in a way that’s easier to recall

method of LOCI

helps you remember information by associating it with specific locations in a familiar setting. uses spatial memory and vivid imagery to enhance recall

chunking

grouping pieces of information into larger and more managable groups

spacing effect

when information is learned all at once, we get a false sense that we understand the information. when we space out our studying and practice distributed practice, you will often see real learning

the testing effect

enhanced memory retention that occurs when actively retrieving information from memory (e.g., by answering practice questions) rather than simply rereading it

serial position effect

how the order of how the information is presented effects how we recall it. usually information in the middle of the list is the hardest to remember

primacy effect

information presented in the beginning is more likely to be remembered because it has had more time to be rehearsed and encoded into long-term memory

recency effect

information at the end of the list is easier to remember because it is the most fresh