Implicit memory is a type of memory that occurs without any conscious effort or awareness on our part. It’s the memory we use daily without even thinking about it.
On the other hand, explicit memory is the kind of memory we consciously remember and reflect on. It’s the kind of memory we use to remember specific information, like the name of a person we met yesterday.
Implicit memory is usually more reliable than explicit memory. That’s because implicit memory is based on automatic processes, often more consistent and efficient than our conscious deliberations.
Implicit memory also helps us remember information unrelated to the current context. For example, implicit memory can help us remember the name of a song we heard a few days ago, even if we can’t remember the lyrics.
Yet, explicit memory can be useful too. For example, explicit memory can help us remember important facts and figures and the sequence of events in a particular situation.
Implicit and explicit memory are both important for learning and memory. Implicit memory is important for retrieving information from the past, while explicit memory is important for recalling information for use in the present. Both types of memory are important for everyday functioning.
