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How much information can we hold in short-term memory?.

2 Answers

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Final answer:

Short-term memory has a limited capacity for holding information, with a capacity of approximately 7 plus or minus 2 items according to George Miller's research.

Step-by-step explanation:

Short-term memory, also known as working memory, has limited capacity for holding information in the brain for a brief period of time. According to research by George Miller, the capacity of short-term memory is approximately 7 plus or minus 2 items. However, more recent studies suggest that the capacity is closer to 4 plus or minus 1 item. It is important to note that the capacity may vary depending on various factors such as the nature of the information and whether it is presented visually or acoustically.

User Alesh Houdek
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Most of the information kept in short-term memory will be stored for approximately 20 to 30 seconds, or even less.3 Some information can last in short-term memory for up to a minute, but most information spontaneously decays quite quickly, unless you use rehearsal strategies such as saying the information aloud or mentally repeating it.
User Rocko
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