Memory: The Basics on Different Types of Memory

The purpose of this reading is to help you better understand the challenges of school-related memorization as well as my other articles on this topic.

Science distinguishes several types of memory, often categorized by their duration, nature, and the cognitive processes they involve.

In the context of schoolwork, it’s obviously impossible to isolate a single type of memory at play. As you’ll see, it’s more complex and highly dependent on individuals, effort, situations, and contexts, among other factors.

Here are the main categories of memory identified:

1. Sensory Memory

• This is the most fleeting type of memory. It allows us to retain a very brief trace (a few milliseconds to a few seconds) of sensory stimuli (visual, auditory, tactile, etc.) before they are filtered or directed to short-term memory.
• Examples:
  • Iconic memory (for visual stimuli).
  • Echoic memory (for auditory stimuli).

2. Short-term Memory (STM)

• Also called working memory, this allows us to store information for a short period (about 20 to 30 seconds). It’s the system that actively manages information needed for immediate cognitive tasks (like remembering a phone number temporarily or handling data from an equation).
• Its capacity is limited (typically around 7 ± 2 pieces of information).

3. Working Memory

• Considered a subset of short-term memory, working memory is responsible for holding and processing information to perform complex tasks, such as problem-solving or reasoning. After a certain period, if the information is forgotten, you’ll need to revisit the initial statement or problem again.

4. Long-term Memory (LTM)

• This type of memory allows information to be stored for much longer periods, ranging from minutes to decades. It is divided into several subcategories:

  a. Declarative (Explicit) Memory

  • This is the memory of facts and events that we can consciously recall and verbalize.
  • Subtypes:
    • Episodic Memory: Relates to memories of personal events contextualized in time and space (such as recalling a trip or a party).
    • Semantic Memory: Relates to general knowledge, facts, and concepts (such as knowing that Paris is the capital of France).

  b. Procedural (Implicit) Memory

  • This is the memory of skills and habits, often unconscious. It allows us to perform tasks without thinking about them, like sending an email or playing a musical instrument.

5. Prospective Memory

• This is the memory that allows us to remember to do things in the future, such as remembering to complete an assignment by Thursday or send an email later.

6. Autobiographical Memory

• This encompasses personal memories and life events, often associated with an emotional dimension, although emotion can intervene at other levels. It draws on episodic memory but can also incorporate semantic elements.