AP Psychology 2.4: Encoding Memories

Question 1

Encoding

Answer 1

The process and strategies used to take in information and store it in long-term memory.

Question 2

Visual Encoding

Answer 2

Encoding based on visual elements; e.g., remembering a book’s font or color.

Question 3

Acoustic Encoding

Answer 3

Encoding based on sound; e.g., remembering information using rhymes.

Question 4

Tactile Encoding

Answer 4

Encoding based on touch; e.g., remembering the feel of textures.

Question 5

Organizational Encoding

Answer 5

Encoding information in terms of sequence, lists, groups, or relationships.

Question 6

Elaborative Encoding

Answer 6

Linking new information to prior knowledge to aid memory.

Question 7

Semantic Encoding

Answer 7

Encoding based on meaning or context; involves deep processing and is highly effective.

Question 8

Encoding Strategies Impact

Answer 8

Effective strategies enhance storage and retrieval; shallow/passive strategies weaken retention.

Question 9

Mnemonic Devices

Answer 9

Tools that help organize and recall information using patterns like acronyms, rhymes, and associations.

Question 10

Method of Loci

Answer 10

A mnemonic that uses spatial memory and vivid imagery tied to familiar locations to remember details.

Question 11

Chunking

Answer 11

Grouping small bits of information into larger, more manageable units for easier memory.

Question 12

Categories & Hierarchies

Answer 12

Organizing information by groups or levels helps link concepts and improve recall.

Question 13

Distributed Practice

Answer 13

Spacing out study sessions over time to improve encoding and retention (spacing effect).

Question 14

Massed Practice

Answer 14

Cramming all at once gives a false sense of mastery and is less effective than spaced learning.

Question 15

Testing Effect

Answer 15

Self-testing during studying improves memory and reveals what you truly understand or don’t.

Question 16

Benefits of Testing

Answer 16

Helps refine focus, improves memory, and assesses comprehension.

Question 17

Serial Position Effect

Answer 17

The order of information affects recall: items at the beginning and end are better remembered.

Question 18

Primacy Effect

Answer 18

Better recall of the first items in a list due to more rehearsal and encoding into LTM.

Question 19

Recency Effect

Answer 19

Better recall of the last items because the info is still fresh in short-term memory.

Question 20

Middle List Challenge

Answer 20

Information in the middle of lists is often forgotten due to lack of rehearsal and recency.