What is sensory memory in memory models?

Sensory memory serves as a crucial initial stage in the process of memory encoding. It acts as a temporary register that captures incoming sensory information from the environment for a very brief period, usually just a fraction of a second. This allows the brain to hold onto sensory experiences long enough for them to be processed and eventually transferred to short-term or working memory if deemed significant.

The function of sensory memory is to provide a brief window during which the information can be analyzed for further encoding. For example, when you see an object, the visual information is held in sensory memory for a short time so your brain can perceive and interpret it before deciding what to store more permanently.

This concept helps distinguish sensory memory from other memory processes. In contrast to options that describe long duration retention, memory consolidation, or summarization, sensory memory is characterized by its quick and fleeting nature, designed specifically to capture immediate experiences rather than to store them long-term or summarize information.