When something was in your working memory but it wasn't successfully linked to be added into the long term memory
Storage decay
Where over time it seems like some memories fall apart
Retrieval failure
When you know you have the information but you cannot access it, like tip of the tongue
Ebbinghaus forgetting curve
1885 study where a man tried to memorize nonsense syllables. He noticed a steep drop off in recall initially, but then it leveled out. Example of storage decay
Prospective memory
Memory that tells you to do something in the future, may be assisted with retrieval cues (like taking pills when you enter bathroom and see med cabinet)
Interference
When some information blocks the recall of other information
Proactive interference
When prior information disrupts learning new information, like when your 2nd language keeps popping up when you're trying to learn your 3rd
Retroactive interference
When new learning disrupts recalling old information, like when your 3rd language keeps popping up when you speak your 2nd
Amnesia
Temporary or permanent loss of memory
Retrograde amnesia
Inability to remember past information or experiences, but still have procedural memory (walk, drive a car, speak) ex. blow to the head
Anterograde amnesia
Inability to form new memories, HM, usually involves problems in the hippocampus. Not procedural
Source amnesia
When you cannot remember the source of information, so you attribute it to the wrong source
Ways to improve memory
Make it meaningful with links or associations
Distributed practice
Activate retrieval cues
Use testing effect
Chunking
Mnemonics
Sleep
Studying before you go to sleep is good because no new information will interfere between learning and falling asleep (when you process information)
