Types of long-term memory

• Episodic memory (EM)

  • Episodic memory is a form of LTM for events occurring in an individual's life.
• Episodic memory:

  • Episodic LTM is the memory that gives people an autobiographical record of personal experiences (e.g. when their birthday is).
  • The strength of episodic memories are influenced by emotions present at the time a memory is coded.
  • Episodic memory is part of the explicit LTM (conscious).
• Semantic memory (SM)

  • Semantic memory is a type of LTM for meanings, understandings and other concept-based knowledge.
• Semantic memory:

  • Semantic LTM contains all knowledge (facts, concepts, meanings, etc.)
  • Semantic memory is learned.
  • Semantic memory is part of the explicit LTM.
• Procedural memory (PM)

  • Procedural memory is a type of LTM for the performance of particular types of action.
• Procedural memory:

  • Procedural LTM is a type of implicit memory.
  • This type of memory permits people to perform learned tasks with little conscious thought.
  • Riding a bike or speaking a language are examples of procedural memory.
  • Procedural memory doesn't require conscious thought, it allows people to simultaneously perform other cognitive tasks that require attention.