How would you describe short-term memory?

Short-term memory is best described as a brief, immediate memory system that allows individuals to hold and process a limited amount of information for a short duration. This type of memory is essential for tasks that require the manipulation of information, such as problem-solving, reasoning, and decision-making.

In short-term memory, information is typically retained for seconds to minutes, and it has a limited capacity, often cited as being able to hold about seven items at once, although this can vary based on several factors. This characteristic distinguishes it from long-term memory, which is designed for the storage of information over extended periods and has a much larger capacity.

The other options inaccurately represent the nature of short-term memory. For instance, long-term memory is specifically the type of memory used for experiences over longer timeframes, not short-term. Similarly, the idea of limitless storage aligns more closely with long-term memory as well, but short-term memory indeed has constraints on both time and capacity. Lastly, sensory memory refers to an initial brief storage of sensory information, which is separate from the short-term memory focus in this question. Therefore, the emphasis on the brief and immediate nature of short-term memory makes it the accurate answer in this context.