Working Memory

When information is stored in the brain, it is identified as memory. There are three kinds of memory: (1) long-term memory (LTM), (2) short-term memory (STM), and (3) working memory. STM contains our immediate thoughts and is fleeting. Memory capability progresses as we develop and mature. By age 18, humans have the cognitive capacity to remember and process approximately seven items or chunks of information at any given time—for around 10 to 15 seconds—to be utilized for immediate access. If conscious effort is not expended to transfer this information to LTM—the next stage of retention with a vast storage capacity—then this information is permanently deleted. Even though STM and working memory are used interchangeably, they are not the same. In principle, working memory is the ...