Memory - is the ability of the mind to store, retain and recollect information.


Memories are the seat of learning with the help of special senses and skills.

Storing of information after being perceived depends on the way of perception.

Likewise, retaining and recollecting ability depends in the interest and understanding while learnt or stored.

They also depend upon the duration, nature, repetition of retrievals of information, etc. These are not the reaction of a single nerve cell in the brain, but an interaction of millions and millions of cells - just like taking a decision in a conference hall. Brain will analyse every cell’s suggestion and gives significance in storage according to the importance of the matter or information.

It also helps in interpreting things with emotions or rational thinking.

Memorising mechanism seems to be a mystery and is less understood. There are two types of memories

Retrospective memories – remembering past incidents, for example schooldays or college days’ memories.

Prospective memories – planning to do things in future, i.e. schedules, appointments, etc.


Memory can be further classified as

Short term memories - are just like temporary files in computer. For example – superficial reading – it will be remembered for an hour or so if not, for that day and not more than that. Some people use to forget the food they had just two hours ago. It will be given less importance in the brain. So, like erasing a board, short-term memory will be erased often after completing the work or act. These short-term memories are lost in case of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, so they find it difficult to do any activity.

Long time memories – are like stored files in the computer. They can be retained and recollected for a prolonged period, even for life. These long-term memories can be lost after a head injury, mental shock, tragedy/disaster (post-traumatic stress disorder), stroke, etc.