Quick Takeaways

  • The memory process has 3 steps: encoding, storage, retrieval.
  • Encoding is the first step of memory and depends on attention.
  • Storage improves through meaning and spaced practice.
  • Retrieval improves through testing and active recall.

The memory process in psychology explains how we learn and remember. Many exam questions ask: explain the process of memory in psychology.

This page breaks it into simple steps—encoding, storage, and retrieval—with examples and student-friendly study tips.

The 3 steps of memory (overview)

Most psychology textbooks describe memory using three steps.

Encoding (first step of memory)

Storage

Retrieval

Step 1: Encoding (first step of memory)

Encoding is taking in information. Attention and understanding matter most.

Example: If you read a paragraph while thinking about something else, encoding is weak. If you focus and understand, encoding is strong.

Improve encoding by removing distractions

Use examples to make information meaningful

Summarize in your own words

Use visual notes (headings, diagrams) for better structure

Step 2: Storage

Storage means keeping information over time.

Storage improves when you revisit information after gaps (spaced practice) and when you connect new ideas to old knowledge.

Spaced repetition: revise after 1 day, 3 days, 7 days

Organize notes into headings and keywords

Sleep supports consolidation

Avoid cramming-only learning

Step 3: Retrieval

Retrieval means bringing information back when needed.

In exams, many students ‘know’ a topic but cannot recall it quickly. That is a retrieval problem. The best fix is testing yourself.

Active recall: close notes and write what you remember

Practice questions and mock tests

Teach-back: explain to a friend or mirror

Use flashcards for definitions and formulas

Golden rule: What you test, you remember. Testing trains retrieval.

Common memory problems and quick fixes

Use this quick diagnosis to improve faster.

Read but forget next day → use spaced revision (storage).

Understand but cannot recall in exam → practice active recall (retrieval).

Cannot understand the topic → improve encoding using examples and simpler notes.

Too much stress → do short blocks and focus on practice questions.

Mini study routine using memory process

This routine uses all 3 steps in one session.

Learn 10 minutes (encoding)

Recall 3 minutes (retrieval)

Check gaps 2 minutes

Practice 10 minutes

Revise next day (storage)

Next Step

To master memory topics for exams, connect this page to your ‘Types of Memory’ pillar and add a short example for encoding, storage, and retrieval in your notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step of memory?

Encoding is the first step of memory, where information is taken in and understood.

What are the 3 steps of memory?

Encoding, storage, and retrieval are the three steps of the memory process.

How do you improve retrieval?

Use active recall, practice questions, and mock tests.

What improves storage?

Spaced repetition, meaningful understanding, and sleep help storage.

Why do students forget after studying?

Often because they reread instead of practicing recall, and they do not revise with spacing.