Working memory

/ˈwɜːk.ɪŋ ˈmɛm.ə.ɹi/ noun

Definition

A cognitive system that temporarily holds and manipulates information needed for complex tasks such as reasoning, comprehension, and learning.

Etymology

Term coined by Alan Baddeley and Graham Hitch in 1974, from 'working' (actively engaged) + 'memory.'

Kelly Says

Working memory is your brain's mental workspace — it holds the pieces you're actively thinking about, like a whiteboard in your mind.

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