The basic memory process consists of three steps: encoding, storage, and retrieval. And while all three steps are necessary for memory storage, retrieval is arguably the most relevant of the three as it demonstrates that a certain memory has been successfully stored into our long-term memory.
So what exactly does retrieval entail? It’s defined as the act of getting information out of memory storage and back into our working memory and conscious thought. There are three forms of retrieval: recall, recognition, and relearning.
Recall, which is what we typically think of when we discuss retrieval. It is the ability to access information without cues and is a skill we often use during exams while answering short answer questions.
Recognition occurs when you identify information that has been previously learned. We use recognition when trying to choose the correct answer, like during a multiple-choice test. We choose the correct answer after comparing it with other choices and picking the solution that is familiar to us and fits in the context of the question.
Relearning is likely the most cumbersome of the three forms of memory retrieval as it involves learning information that has been previously learned. There are several concepts that we have been taught over and over again over our many years of schooling. Relearning can help measure the time saved while learning a familiar concept again. For example, a person who took piano lessons as a child but didn’t play again until adulthood will likely be surprised at how quickly they are able to pick up the skill again because of the concept of relearning.
Whatever the form of recall, retrieval cues can help us remember through the web of associations that hold our memories together in storage. State-dependent and Mood-dependent memory explain how our things such as our physical setting and emotional state of mind can trigger the process of retrieval.
Though the concepts of retrieval and understanding the importance of retrieval cues are useful to apply while studying for exams, it can also have some interesting consequences. For example, in middle school, I loved reading books in the car while my dad drove me to school. While reading, he would often play music to entertain himself. In fourth grade, I remember that my dad went through a phase of playing old Pakistani songs from the 70s and 80s while I was reading the Percy Jackson series. Amazingly, almost ten years later whenever I hear those old songs I immediately begin to think about the books I was reading. My brain automatically goes through the process of retrieval because of the cues presented by the music! It is a strange association of memories that I will likely recall for the rest of my life.