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Types of memory
Learn what long- and short-term memory are — and everything in between.
Memory actually takes many different forms. We know that when we store a memory, we are storing information. But, what that information is and how long we retain it determines what type of memory it is.
The biggest categories of memory are short-term memory (or working memory) and long-term memory, based on the amount of time the memory is stored. Both can weaken due to age, or a variety of other reasons and clinical conditions that affect memory.
Memory types
There are two major categories of memory: long-term memory and short-term memory. To learn more, choose from the options below.
- Long-term Memory
Long-term memory is our brain’s system for storing, managing, and retrieving information. Learn more about it. - Short-term Memory
Closely related to “working” memory, short-term memory is the very short time that you keep something in mind before either dismissing it or transferring it to long-term memory. Learn more about it.
Types of long-term memory
As you would imagine, long-term memories are much more complex than short-term ones. We store different types of information (procedures, life experiences, language, etc.) with separate memory systems.
- Explicit Memory: Explicit memory, or declarative memory, is a type of long-term memory requiring conscious thought. It’s what most people have in mind when they think of a memory.
- Implicit Memory: Implicit memory is a major form of long-term memory that does not require conscious thought. It allows you to do things by rote.
- Autobiographical Memory: Most of us have one part of life that we remember better than others. Find out if you have a “memory bump”!
- Memory & Morpheus: Researchers have come to believe slumber actively helps our brains consolidate what we learn and remember. Can sleep hurt or help memory?
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