That’s where memory consolidation comes in.
What Is Memory Consolidation?
Memory consolidation is the process in the brain that converts short-term memories into long-term ones.
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Building Long-Term Memories With New Information
Memory consolidation relies on synapses in the brain.
The more frequently signals are passed, the stronger the synapses become.
This process, called potentiation, is believed to play a major role in learning and memory processes.
Eventually, these twoneuronsbecome sensitized to one another.
As you acquire new experiences and memories, your brain creates more and more of these connections.
Essentially, the brain rearranges itself, establishing new connections while weeding out old ones.
How Memory Consolidation Works
By rehearsing or recalling information repeatedly, these neural networks strengthen.
As a result, you’ll remember the information later with ease and accuracy.
Sleep can play an important role in the consolidation process.
Researchers have found that memories often need to be reconsolidated once they have been recalled.
The process of recalling and reconsolidating a memory can help maintain and strengthen information in long-term memory.
Researchers have also found that memories must be reconsolidated every time you access them.
This process, however, can transform and change the memory itself.
The very act of remembering, it seems, can lead to some things being forgotten.
Rehearsal and memorization strategies, such as using mnemonic devices and studying are a few techniques.
Repetition/study and sleep are good places to start.
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