A memory once created needs to be stored (no matter how briefly) for it to be retrieved later on. Scientist’s think there are three ways that memories get stored. First and foremost is in the sensory stage; then in short-term memory and for some memories in long term memory. These three stages of storing memory function as a sort of filter that protects us from the flood of information that we are confronted with on a daily basis.

The inception of memory in the mind begins with its perception. It is during the perception that the information is registered in the sensory stage that usually lasts only a fraction of a second. It is the sensory memory that allows a perception such as a sound, or a touch or a visual pattern to linger for a brief moment after the stimulation is complete.

After this stage, the sensation is stored in short-term memory. Short-term memory is limited in its ability to store the amount of information. It can hold about seven items for no longer than 20 or 30 seconds at a time. Its capacity to store can be increased by employing various strategies. For example, a larger number like 8005840392 which may be too much for short term memory can be broken into chunks of smaller size as in 800-584-0392 to be able to store for longer duration in short term memory. Another approach could be to repeat the number to you there by resetting the short term memory clock.

Information that is important is gradually transferred from short-term memory into long-term memory. The more the information is used, the more likely it is to end up in long-term memory. Unlike sensory and short-term memory, which are limited and decay rapidly, long-term memory can store unlimited amount of information eternally.