What is the term for the system that stores and manipulates information over short periods, including subsystems for visual and verbal data and a central executive?

• A. Long-Term Memory
• B. Working Memory
• C. Sensory Memory
• D. Procedural Memory

Answer: (B)

Working memory is the system that holds and actively processes information over short periods. It isn’t just a passive store; it manipulates information as you reason, solve problems, or hold a phone number long enough to use it. The model splits this processing into subsystems: a phonological loop handles verbal or auditory data, a visuospatial sketchpad handles visual and spatial information, and a central executive coordinates attention and controls the flow of information between these parts. An episodic buffer later helps integrate data from different sources and connect to long-term memory. This is distinct from long-term memory (long-lasting storage), sensory memory (brief sensory traces), and procedural memory (skills and actions). The description fits because it emphasizes short-term manipulation and the presence of separate systems for visual and verbal data plus a central coordinating component.