---
title: "State-Dependent Memory — AP Psychology Definition"
description: "State-dependent memory means you recall info better in the same physical state as when you learned it. Key for AP Psych Topic 2.6 retrieval questions."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/state-dependent-memory"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# State-Dependent Memory — AP Psychology Definition

## Definition

State-dependent memory refers to the phenomenon where people recall information better when they are in the same physiological or psychological state as when the information was encoded.

## Related Study Guides

- [2.6 Retrieving Memories](/ap-psych-revised/unit-2/6-retrieving-memories/study-guide/fbgbPlf4G5r8b52K)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Encoding](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/encoding): This is the initial process of learning or experiencing something new. It involves converting information into a form that can be stored in memory.
- [Retrieval](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/retrieval): This is the process of accessing and bringing into consciousness information stored in memory.
- Context Dependent Memory: This refers to improved recall of specific episodes or information when the context present at encoding and retrieval are the same.