Definition
Working Memory
Working memory is the limited mental workspace used to hold information in an active and accessible form while it is being processed.
It is closely related to short-term memory, but it emphasises active manipulation rather than passive storage.
Features
- It keeps a small amount of information available for immediate use.
- It supports stepwise reasoning, calculation, and language comprehension.
- It is easily overloaded when too many items must be tracked at once.
Relevance
Working memory is central to tasks that require conscious control, such as following instructions, comparing alternatives, and maintaining intermediate results.