What is the Difference Between Working Memory and Short Term Memory?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Working memory and short-term memory are related but distinct concepts in the field of cognitive psychology. They both involve the storage and manipulation of information, but they differ in their specific functions and characteristics.
Short-term memory is a type of memory that stores information for a brief period of time, typically around 20-30 seconds. Its primary function is to hold onto things you need to know for immediate tasks, such as remembering a phone number, a new name, or the beginning of a sentence.
On the other hand, working memory is related to short-term memory but lasts slightly longer and is involved in the manipulation of information. It can be defined as the ability of our brains to keep a limited amount of information available long enough to use it. Unlike short-term memory, working memory allows for the manipulation of information while it's briefly being stored.
In summary, the main differences between working memory and short-term memory are:
- Function: Short-term memory is primarily concerned with brief information storage, while working memory is involved in the manipulation of information.
- Duration: Short-term memory stores information for a shorter period of time (around 20-30 seconds), whereas working memory lasts slightly longer.
Both working memory and short-term memory are essential for daily cognitive tasks and can be improved through practice and repetition.
Comparative Table: Working Memory vs Short Term Memory
Working memory and short-term memory are related concepts, but they have some key differences. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:
| Feature | Short-Term Memory | Working Memory |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Short-term memory (STM) refers to the ability to hold information in mind over a brief period of time, typically around 20-30 seconds. | Working memory (WM) refers to both structures and processes used for storing and manipulating information, and it allows for the manipulation of information while it's briefly being stored. |
| Focus | STM is primarily concerned with brief information storage, holding onto things you need to know for immediate tasks, such as remembering a phone number or a new name. | WM is more focused on processing thoughts and plans, as well as carrying out ideas. It can help you work with information within the short-term storage period. |
| Storage Capacity | STM is often compared to a desk with about 7 drawers, and each drawer can only hold one piece of information at a time, and only for about 30 seconds total. | WM is often referred to as the "workbench" of memory, as it not only helps you remember things for about 30 seconds but also allows you to work with that information within that timeframe. |
In summary, short-term memory is mainly about holding information for a brief period, while working memory involves both storing and manipulating information for a short duration.
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- Left Brain vs Right Brain
- Hippocampus vs Hypothalamus