Final answer:
The use of visual encoding, acoustic encoding, and concepts are methods for using sounds, pictures, and other associations to store memories more effectively. Encoding creates a stronger memory by visualizing concrete words or associating sounds and concepts, and mnemonic devices serve as powerful tools to aid in memory retention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for using certain sounds, pictures, or concepts to store memories is known as encoding, which comes in different forms such as visual encoding and acoustic encoding. Visual encoding is especially powerful, as it pertains to the encoding of images. It allows for concrete, high-imagery words to be more easily recalled than abstract, low-imagery words, due to our ability to visualize them and thus create a stronger memory. Acoustic encoding relates to the sounds and the semantic networks in our brain that link related concepts together, strengthening our memory when two concepts are frequently associated.
Our brain organizes information into categories or groupings known as concepts, which help us see relationships among different elements and keep information accessible. The process of memory includes encoding, storing, and retrieving information, and certain strategies like mnemonic devices can greatly enhance our memory. These devices use patterns of letters, ideas, or associations to improve our ability to remember information.