AP Psychology Flashcards: Encoding Memories
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 14 cards to help you master important concepts.
How does the way information is encoded affect later memory processes?
The way information is encoded directly affects its storage and later retrieval. More effective encoding strategies lead to better memory recall.
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How does the way information is encoded affect later memory processes?
The way information is encoded directly affects its storage and later retrieval. More effective encoding strategies lead to better memory recall.
After a job interview, the manager best remembers the first candidate they saw in the morning and the last candidate from the afternoon. What concept explains this?
This is explained by the serial position effect, where information at the beginning (primacy) and end (recency) is most memorable.
A student crams for a final exam by studying for 8 hours straight the night before. Which encoding principle suggests this is an ineffective strategy?
This is an example of massed practice, which the spacing effect shows is less effective for encoding information into long-term memory than distributed practice.
What is the serial position effect?
The serial position effect is the tendency to best recall information presented at the beginning and the end of a list.
Besides chunking, what are two other ways of grouping information to improve encoding?
Encoding can be improved by grouping information into meaningful categories or hierarchies.
What is the spacing effect?
The spacing effect is the principle that distributed practice (studying over time) is a more effective encoding strategy for long-term retention than massed practice (cramming).
What is the recency effect?
The recency effect is a component of the serial position effect that describes the enhanced recall for information presented at the end of a list.
What is the primacy effect?
The primacy effect is a component of the serial position effect that describes the enhanced recall for information presented at the beginning of a list.
What is chunking?
Chunking is an encoding strategy that involves grouping information into meaningful units or chunks to make it easier to remember.
What is the key difference between distributed practice and massed practice?
Distributed practice involves spreading out study sessions over time, while massed practice involves concentrating study into a single long session.
What are mnemonic devices?
Mnemonic devices are memory aids that help in encoding information. The method of loci is one example of a mnemonic device.
What is encoding in the context of memory?
Encoding involves the strategies used to get information into memory. It is the initial process of learning and processing information.
Why is organizing information into hierarchies an effective encoding strategy?
Grouping information into hierarchies improves encoding because it organizes items into meaningful categories, which aids in storage and retrieval.
A student visualizes placing historical facts in different rooms of their house to remember them for a test. What specific encoding aid are they using?
The student is using the method of loci, a mnemonic device that aids in encoding information by associating it with a familiar physical location.