Types of Memory

Sensory Memory:

Information is taken in by the senses and stored just long enough (a few seconds) to be transferred into working memory. Examples would be the information coming into your eyes or ears at this very moment.

Working Memory

(sometimes called Short Term Memory): This type of memory processes and temporarily holds small amounts of information. On Average, it can hold 5-9 items for about 30 seconds. Examples: you meet someone and they tell you their name. A minute later you realize you forget what their name is. This means you had the info in your working memory but failed to store in your long term memory. Another example is when your parents ask you to do something like hang up your jacket. In the moment you hear them and say 'yes' I will but a minute later you forget all about what they asked you to do.

Declarative (or Explicit) Memory:

This refers to memory that has to do with information and it is stored in the cerebral cortex. There are two types of declarative memory: Semantic and Episodic.

Long Term Memory:

Information can be stored in your long term memory for an indefinite length of time. The storage capacity of your brain for long term memory is unlimited. There are two different types of long term memory: Declarative (Explicit) Memory and Procedural (Implicit) Memory. Examples would be any information you can recall right now such as your phone number or the name of the school you attend as well as any learned action you can do like walking or riding a bike.

Procedural (Implicit) Memory

One of the two types of long term memory. Procedural memory is the memory of physical actions. This is stored in your cerebellum. Examples would include riding a bike, swinging a golf club, or walking.

Episodic Memory

A type of declarative memory that has to do with events in ones life. What you did for your last birthday would be an example.

Semantic Memory

A type of declarative memory that has to do with facts and knowledge. Examples would be the capital of California, what is 2 plus 2, and how many people are there in your family.