Long-term memory acts like the hard drive of the brain, storing information over extended periods. This memory type can retain information indefinitely, ranging from minutes to a lifetime. Whether itβs remembering your first bicycle ride or academic knowledge like math formulas, long-term memory helps us retain and retrieve past experiences and truths.
Long-term memory is generally divided into two categories:
- Explicit memory: This includes facts and events that we consciously remember. It's further divided into episodic (personal experiences) and semantic memory (general knowledge).
- Implicit memory: This involves skills and routines we've learned, like riding a bike or tying shoelaces.
The strength of a long-term memory can depend on factors such as the frequency and emotional significance of the information. Active rehearsal, meaningful associations, and emotional connections enhance how effectively information is stored and retrieved from long-term memory.