Short-Term Memory

Short-term memory is a type of memory that is used in everyday activities and can be thought of as a “mental scratch pad.” It is the type of memory used to remember what someone just said or what one is doing. Short-term memory is limited in both capacity and duration. It is estimated that the capacity of short-term memory is around seven items, plus or minus two. This means that you can typically remember seven items at once. The duration of short-term memory is estimated to be 15-20 seconds, which can be extended with rehearsal. Short-term memory is quite fragile, and therefore is very susceptible to interference. This interference may come from distraction or the sudden introduction of a new stimulus. This interference can cause the previously remembered events to be quickly forgotten. In addition, repetition is a key factor in the ability to remember something in short-term memory. The more times the memory is rehearsed, the more likely it will be stored successfully in long-term memory. Tasks such as memorizing phone numbers, remembering new words, or holding information in mind while problem-solving require the use of short-term memory. It is the limited-capacity memory system that bridge gaps between input and output, helps with processing and retrieval of knowledge, and sets the foundation for long-term memory formation. The focus and management of short-term memory can be improved through the use of several techniques. Chunking involves breaking complex information into smaller, more manageable chunks and using mnemonic devices or stories to help remember the items. The amount of information can also be limited by only focusing on what is most important. Finally, avoiding multitasking and distractions can help try to reduce interference. By implementing these strategies, it can help maximize the strengths and minimize the weaknesses of short-term memory.