retrieval is the process of getting information out of memory

ways of retrieval:

  • blind retrieval - the process of retrieval willfully
  • retrieval cues - are external and/or internal stimuli that helps the process of retrieval
    • associations
    • contextual
    • mood

3 main types of recall:

  • free recall
  • cued recall
  • serial recall

how we recall:

  • direct retrieval - information linked directly with cue
  • sequential scan - systematic search through entire contents
  • hierarchical inference - cue is linked to a subset of information

the brain is able to determine in advance whether there is any point in searching memory for a particular fact

  • instantly recognizes the question “what is socrates’ phone number?” as absurd

2 main ways of accessing memory:

  • recognition
    • example, recognizing face
    • largely unconscious process
  • recall
    • example, recalling name of face recognized
    • largely a conscious process