The three types of memory
Types of Memory
In general, our brains utilize three types of longer-term memory to help us navigate our world: procedural, semantic, and episodic.2
Procedural memory
This is the memory for skills and habits. It allows us to perform tasks such as riding a bike, playing an instrument, or typing on a keyboard, often without conscious thought once the skill is learned.
Learn more about Procedural memorySemantic memory
This is the memory for facts, concepts, and general knowledge. It helps us store information like the meaning of words, the capital of a country, or basic math. Semantic memory is what allows us to communicate and understand the world around us.
Learn more about Semantic memoryEpisodic memory
This is the memory for personal experiences and specific events. It allows us to recall moments from our lives, such as a birthday party, a trip to the beach, or what we had for breakfast yesterday. Episodic memory is deeply tied to our sense of self and identity.
Learn more about Episodic memory
Together, these three types of longer-term memory form the foundation of human cognition. They enable us to learn new skills, retain knowledge, and connect with our personal histories, creating a complete picture of how we experience the world.