What characterizes short term (anterograde) memory?

Short term (anterograde) memory is characterized by the retention of information for about 20 to 30 minutes. This form of memory involves the temporary storage of information that is actively being processed or is in our conscious awareness. Unlike long-term memory, which can store information for extended periods or even indefinitely, short term memory has a limited capacity and duration.

Information held in short term memory is typically very brief, often lasting just long enough for it to be used immediately, such as retaining a phone number long enough to dial it. The specified duration of 20 to 30 minutes aligns with research in cognitive psychology that defines the duration of active memory retention without rehearsal or encoding into long-term storage. This understanding is crucial for effective learning strategies and for distinguishing between different types of memory.