What are the three main stages of memory?

The three main stages of memory are encoding, storage, and retrieval. This model represents the process through which information is first acquired, then maintained over time, and finally accessed when needed.

Encoding is the initial stage where sensory input is transformed into a form that can be processed by the brain. This could involve converting visual images into visual codes or translating sounds into auditory codes. Effective encoding is crucial for creating memories that can be stored and recalled later.

Storage refers to the maintenance of information over time. This stage can be short-term, where information is held briefly for immediate use, or long-term, where information can be kept for extended periods. The ability to store memories effectively is impacted by how well information is encoded in the first place.

Retrieval is the final stage, involving the recall of stored information when needed. This could be as straightforward as remembering a fact for a test or more complex, like recalling an event from the past. Successful retrieval often depends on the strength of the encoding and whether the information stored can be easily accessed.

Understanding these three stages is fundamental in psychology, as they offer insight into how memory works and are essential for studying various memory-related processes, including learning and forgetting.