Which memory system involves immediate recall of 3 to 9 elements within seconds when rehearsal is prevented?

Which memory system involves immediate recall of 3 to 9 elements within seconds when rehearsal is prevented?

• A. Long Term Memory
• B. Short Term Memory
• C. Working Memory
• D. Episodic Memory

Answer: (B)

Short-term memory handles the immediate recall of a small number of items for a brief moment, especially when you can’t rehearse them. Classic findings show you can hold roughly 7 ± 2 items, but when rehearsal is prevented, only a few items—about 3 to 9—can be recalled within seconds. This scenario reflects that limited, fleeting storage characteristic. Long-term memory stores a vast amount of information for long durations, and episodic memory is a type of long-term memory focused on personal experiences, so they don’t describe the immediate, short-lived recall this item tests. Working memory involves temporarily holding and actively manipulating information for ongoing tasks, which goes beyond simple immediate recall without rehearsal. Therefore, the best fit is short-term memory.

Short-term memory handles the immediate recall of a small number of items for a brief moment, especially when you can’t rehearse them. Classic findings show you can hold roughly 7 ± 2 items, but when rehearsal is prevented, only a few items—about 3 to 9—can be recalled within seconds. This scenario reflects that limited, fleeting storage characteristic. Long-term memory stores a vast amount of information for long durations, and episodic memory is a type of long-term memory focused on personal experiences, so they don’t describe the immediate, short-lived recall this item tests. Working memory involves temporarily holding and actively manipulating information for ongoing tasks, which goes beyond simple immediate recall without rehearsal. Therefore, the best fit is short-term memory.