APA Cognitive Psychology

Question 1

What is the capacity of short-term (working) memory according to Miller's classic research?

Accepted Answer

7 ± 2 chunks

Answer

Miller (1956) famously reported that short-term memory holds approximately 7 ± 2 chunks of information at one time.

Question 2

Which memory system stores general knowledge and facts about the world, independent of personal experience?

Accepted Answer

Semantic memory

Answer

Semantic memory is the long-term memory system that stores conceptual knowledge, facts, and word meanings that are not tied to specific personal experiences.

Question 3

The 'availability heuristic' leads people to judge the likelihood of an event based on:

Accepted Answer

How easily examples come to mind

Answer

The availability heuristic (Tversky & Kahneman) is a mental shortcut where probability judgments are based on how readily examples can be recalled.

Question 4

Which term describes the inability to form new long-term memories after brain damage?

Accepted Answer

Anterograde amnesia

Answer

Anterograde amnesia is the inability to encode and store new memories following the onset of amnesia, as famously illustrated by patient H.M.

Question 5

What is 'elaborative rehearsal' and why is it more effective than maintenance rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

Connecting new information to existing knowledge; effective because it creates deeper encoding

Answer

Elaborative rehearsal involves linking new material to existing memories and giving it meaning, creating a deeper level of processing that enhances long-term retention.

APA - American Psychological Association Practice Test

APA - American Psychological Association Practice Test

APA Cognitive Psychology