Which term describes converting perceived information into a memory representation?

• A. Encoding
• B. Retrieval
• C. Storage
• D. Decay

Answer: (A)

Converting perceived information into a memory representation is encoding. When you notice or experience something, encoding transforms that sensory input into a memory trace by attaching meaning or mental representations to it, making it something your brain can store and later retrieve. The more deeply you encode—for example, by focusing attention, connecting the new information to what you already know, or thinking about its meaning—the stronger the memory becomes. Retrieval is the process of recalling or recognizing stored information, storage is keeping it over time, and decay is the gradual loss of memory traces if they aren’t used.