Short-Term Memory (STM)

Definition

Short-term memory is the part of the memory system where information is stored for roughly 20 seconds. It can hold about 7 items at a time.

Related terms

Working Memory:

This is an extension of short-term memory that involves the simultaneous storage and manipulation of information. It's like having a whiteboard in addition to your sticky notes, where you can actively work with and rearrange the information.

Encoding:

This is the process by which we transform what we perceive or think into an enduring memory. It's like writing down something on your sticky note.

Decay Theory:

This theory suggests that over time, if not used or refreshed, memories in our short term store begin to fade and disappear altogether - just as ink fades on a sticky note left out in sunlight too long.