Explicit Memory
Explicit Memory
Explicit memory refers to memories you can consciously recall and put into words. It includes things you can intentionally bring to mind, like what you had for dinner last night or what the capital of your country is.
Details
What Is Explicit Memory?
Explicit memory is memory that we can consciously recall and express in words. Mindy believes understanding this concept is key to grasping how our minds store and retrieve experiences.
Two Types
Explicit memory is divided into two main types:
Difference from Implicit Memory
The opposite of explicit memory is implicit memory. Implicit memory covers things that are hard to consciously explain but that your body just knows — like how to ride a bike or play the piano. You could say explicit memory is about 'knowing what,' while implicit memory is about 'knowing how.'
Connection to Mental Health
Mindy wants you to know that explicit memory is deeply connected to our emotional well-being. After experiencing trauma, certain memories can become overwhelmingly vivid, or they may be suppressed and become difficult to access. Keeping an emotion journal or working through memories in counseling are wonderful ways to care for your mental health.
💡 Real-Life Example
Looking at photos taken with friends on graduation day and vividly recalling the joy and excitement of that moment is a classic example of explicit memory.
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.