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Chunking

Definition

Chunking is a strategy used in cognitive psychology to improve memory where large amounts of information are broken down into smaller, manageable groups or 'chunks'.

Analogy

Imagine chunking as packing for a trip. Instead of throwing all your clothes, toiletries, shoes etc., separately into one big suitcase (which would be chaotic), you pack them into separate bags or compartments within your suitcase - clothes in one section, toiletries in another etc. This makes it easier to find what you need when you arrive at your destination.

Related terms

Cognitive Load Theory: A theory which suggests that our working memory capacity can be optimized by reducing complex information into simpler 'chunks'. It’s like using packing cubes inside your suitcase instead of just stuffing everything in randomly.

Working Memory: The part of short-term memory that is concerned with immediate conscious perceptual and linguistic processing. It's like the suitcase you're actively packing and unpacking.

Long-term Memory: The final stage of the dual memory model proposed by Atkinson and Shiffrin, which can store large quantities of information for potentially unlimited duration. It's like a wardrobe where you keep all your clothes when you're not traveling.