Procedural memory

Procedural memory is a type of <a href="/facts/Implicit_memory/s3FkGcTr">implicit memory</a> (<a href="/facts/Unconscious_mind/BAIRTFMM">unconscious</a>, <a href="/facts/Long-term_memory/NvxgXP2y">long-term</a> memory) which aids the performance of particular types of tasks without <a href="/facts/Consciousness/IAxmgt6c">conscious</a> awareness of these previous <a href="/facts/Experience/1LeXy1DW">experiences</a>.
Procedural memory guides the processes we perform, and most frequently resides below the level of conscious awareness. When needed, procedural memories are automatically <a href="/facts/Recall_(memory)/flxSh2qP">retrieved</a> and utilized for execution of the integrated procedures involved in both <a href="/facts/Cognition/ga0tSBul">cognitive</a> and <a href="/facts/Motor_skill/ywRAIzJE">motor skills</a>, from tying shoes, to reading, to flying an airplane. Procedural memories are accessed and used without the need for conscious control or attention.
Procedural memory is created through procedural learning, or repeating a complex activity over and over again until all of the relevant <a href="/facts/Neural_pathway/zDpRfS6S">neural systems</a> work together to automatically produce the activity. Implicit procedural learning is essential for the development of any motor skill or cognitive activity.

Procedural memory open-in-new

Procedural memory