What is the difference between short-term memory, working memory and long-term memory?

Short-term memory, working memory, and long-term memory are different components of the memory system, each serving distinct functions in the process of storing and retrieving information. Here's a breakdown of the differences:

• Short-term Memory:

• Duration: Lasts for a brief period, typically a few seconds to a minute.

• Capacity: Limited capacity for holding information, usually around 7 items (give or take 2) according to the classic "7 plus or minus 2" rule.

• Function: Responsible for temporarily holding and processing information needed for immediate tasks. It's like the mental notepad for quick access.

• Working Memory:

• Duration: Also short-term, but it involves active manipulation and processing of information.

• Capacity: Similar to short-term memory, but it emphasizes the ability to simultaneously hold and work with information, involving mental operations like reasoning and problem-solving.

• Function: Working memory is not just about storing information temporarily but actively using and manipulating it. It plays a crucial role in tasks like comprehension, learning, and decision-making.

• Long-term Memory:

• Duration: Potentially permanent storage.

• Capacity: Virtually unlimited.

• Function: Involves the storage of information for an extended period, ranging from days to a lifetime. It's where information is consolidated and stored for later retrieval. Long-term memory is crucial for learning, retaining facts, and building a knowledge base.

In summary, short-term memory is like a temporary holding area, working memory involves actively using and manipulating information in the short term, and long-term memory is the more permanent storage system for information that you want to retain for a more extended period. These three components work together to facilitate the complex process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information in the human memory system.