Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Procedural memory is a type of long-term memory that enables individuals to perform tasks without conscious awareness, often referred to as "muscle memory." It involves learning motor skills and actions that become automatic through repetition.
Related terms
Long: term memory - A type of memory that stores information for extended periods, ranging from a few days to decades.
Motor skills: The abilities required to control the muscles and movements of the body.
Implicit memory: A form of long-term memory that doesn't require conscious thought to recall, including procedural memory and conditioned responses