Over time, some details fade from our memories while others remain vivid. Exactly what information gets retained and what gets lost has been the subject of several scientific theories. Now, a team of researchers has some answers.
It turns out that the brain works on preserving the most essential elements of memories. In other words, the brain aims to retain the gist of a memory, while ancillary details may be cast off.
In their study, scientists at two universities in the United Kingdom showed word-image pairs to research participants. They were then cued with the words and asked to recall different elements of the paired image.
By measuring the participants’ reaction times, the researchers showed that the more meaningful details of the images were quickly recalled. The more superficial details were slower to emerge.
The study also found the bias toward meaningful memories became stronger with time as participants repeated the exercise several days later.
The study reinforces the idea of what researchers call semantic memory — remembering the meaningful content of an event and forgetting less important details. The study’s lead author gave this example: If you recall a pre-pandemic dinner party, you’re more likely to remember what you ate but less likely to recall the table décor.
The researchers said the findings have potentially important implications for addressing post-traumatic stress disorder, eyewitness testimony and methods for studying. For example, the findings suggest that taking practice tests before an exam will make the important information stick longer.
That strategy could be a boon to students: Study hard … but also study smarter.