What is defined as a limited-capacity system that temporarily holds information?

Working memory is defined as a limited-capacity system that temporarily holds information. It plays a critical role in several cognitive tasks, including reasoning, comprehension, and learning. Unlike short-term memory, which primarily focuses on the short retention of information without manipulation, working memory involves not only storing information but also processing and manipulating it to achieve cognitive tasks.

This system is essential for activities such as mental arithmetic or following multi-step directions, where individuals need to retain and simultaneously work with information. The capacity of working memory is limited, which means it can only hold a small amount of information at any one time, typically around 7±2 items.

In contrast, long-term memory refers to the more permanent storage of information, while semantic memory involves the storage of facts and concepts that are not tied to personal experiences. Therefore, working memory is particularly distinguished by its dynamic nature and its function in actively processing information.