What is Working Memory?

Working memory is memory that temporarily stores information about what we're thinking about.

What does it look like?

Working memory is one of our brain's executive functions.

Executive functions are specific ways
the brain processes and manages information.

Your working memory is used when you repeat numbers in your head or

a set of instructions you were just given.

It's the reason you might forget what you are saying mid-sentence

or struggle to remember directions you were just given.

Working memory is split up into verbal which is words

and nonverbal which is images and sensations.

It's possible to have difficulty with one but not the other - so someone might

have a hard time remembering spoken instructions but find it easier if shown a diagram or visual support.