What is immediate memory characterized by?

Immediate memory, also known as short-term memory, is characterized by holding information for just a few seconds. This type of memory allows individuals to retain a small amount of information in an active, easily accessible state for a brief period. For example, when you look up a phone number and remember it just long enough to dial it, you are utilizing immediate memory.

This transient nature is essential for various cognitive tasks, such as following a conversation, where one needs to hold onto certain pieces of information long enough to process and respond appropriately. Its limited duration and capacity distinguish immediate memory from other memory types, such as long-term memory, which is capable of storing information for much longer periods.