Semantic memories hold information that we can consciously recall even though we don’t remember the specific event where we learned it. Examples of semantic memories include factual information, such as the fact that Hawaii is the 50th U.S. state, that it is composed of many islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and that it is famous for its volcanoes. You probably know all of these things (even if you’ve never been to Hawaii), but you probably don’t remember where or when you learned them.
Another type of semantic memory is “schemas.” These are mental “blueprints” that our brains use to understand how the world is organized, based on patterns we’ve experienced in the past.
For example, if you’re headed to an airport, you know what the basic layout will be, even if you’ve never been to that particular airport before. Ticketing and check-in are closest to the street, followed by security screening, which leads to the actual gates. Furthermore, once you get to the gates, you can be pretty certain that you will find rows and rows of uncomfortable black chairs (although there never seem to be enough), overpriced restaurants and stores, and a long, enclosed jetway that takes you from the gate to the plane.
Because your brain has this “airport schema,” you don’t have to remember the details of every airport you’ve ever been in. Your brain noticed the similarities from past visits to other airports and created a framework that can quickly help you navigate just about any airport, even as you’re running late for your flight.