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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.

Analogy

Think of short-term memory like a sticky note pad on your desk. You jot down things you need to remember briefly, but it's not meant for long-term storage. If you don't transfer that information somewhere more permanent (like into your long-term memory), it will eventually be lost when new notes are added.

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.