Question

What kind of memory do we use to keep someone's phone number in mind long enough to put it in our contacts? a. working memory b. iconic memory c. long-term memory d. sensory memory

Short answer

The type of memory used is working memory.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Different Types of Memory

To solve the problem, you need to understand the different types of memory. - **Working Memory**: This is a short-term memory system that temporarily holds and manipulates information. - **Iconic Memory**: This is a type of sensory memory that holds visual information for a very brief period. - **Long-Term Memory**: This system is used to store information for long periods. - **Sensory Memory**: This type quickly processes sensory information from the environment and lasts for a very short time.

Identify the Task

The task described in the question involves keeping a phone number in mind temporarily until it can be stored somewhere permanently, such as in a contact list.

Connect the Task with Memory Type

Given that the task requires holding information temporarily to perform a task, such as entering it into contacts, this utilizes **working memory**. Working memory allows you to retain the phone number just long enough to input it before it disappears from memory, which fits the description provided.

Key concepts

Types of Memory

Our brain uses different types of memory to process and store information. Understanding these different types helps us comprehend how memories are formed and used in daily tasks. Here are some key types of memory:

• Working Memory: This memory type is used for temporarily holding and processing information. It's crucial for tasks that require mental computations or holding onto information just long enough to use it, like typing a phone number.
• Sensory Memory: Sensory memory acts as a buffer for stimuli received through the five senses. It retains impressions of sensory information even after the original stimuli have ended, for a very short time, often fractions of a second.
• Long-Term Memory: This is for storing information over long periods. Through processes like rehearsal, working memory can transform short-term content into long-term memory.
• Iconic Memory: A specific type of sensory memory related to visual data, which keeps an image in memory for a brief amount of time, lasting only milliseconds.

Memory Systems

Memory systems in the brain organize and retrieve information. They work together to help us perceive, learn, and remember information. Here are the primary systems:

• Short-Term Memory System: This system temporarily holds information that we're currently using or thinking about. It typically lasts for about 15 to 30 seconds, unless rehearsed or actively worked upon.
• Long-Term Memory System: Unlike short-term memory, this system processes and retains information over extended periods, ranging from hours to a lifetime. It can store vast amounts of data.
• Working Memory System: A part of short-term memory but more dynamic. It actively processes and manipulates information for cognitive tasks such as reasoning, learning, and comprehension.
• Sensory Memory System: It acts as an initial processing platform, briefly holding sensory impressions from our environment, enabling the brain to decide what needs further attention.

Short-term Memory

Short-term memory is vital for daily cognitive tasks. It allows you to retain small amounts of information for brief periods. This kind of memory is like a mental sketchpad, holding details temporarily while you need them.

• Duration: Typically, short-term memory lasts 15 to 30 seconds. Without active maintenance, such as repeating the information mentally, it is easy for these memories to fade.
• Capacity: The capacity is limited, often described by the Miller's magic number of 7 ± 2, suggesting most people can hold roughly 5 to 9 items in their short-term memory at a time.
• Role in Daily Life: It helps in daily tasks like recalling phone numbers, names just after meeting someone, or instructions handed down.

To enhance short-term memory, using techniques like chunking, mnemonic devices, or simple repetition can be helpful. Engaging with the information actively ensures better retention in short term.