Working Memory Vs. Long-Term Memory

Theoretically, how is working memory similar to and different from long-term memory?
One of the primary ways that working memory is similar to long-term memory is the fact that working memory is also stored within the memory center or area of the brain. In addition, short term memory and long-term memory can both be recalled to the forefront of an individual's consciousness as needed, and both working memory and long-term memory are influenced by the repetition of data or information. Basically, what appears to be a major difference between working memory and long-term memory, is the fact that working memory seems to be in a continuous cycle of storage, analysis, and recall, which brings it to the forefront of an individual's consciousness seemingly continuously. This seems to occur more rapidly and continuously, the more that a given memory is utilized in an individual's day-to-day activities, and seems to serve as a means by which the brain can keep important and frequently utilize short-term memories are available for utilization by the executive center of the brain as needed. Another very important difference between working memory and long-term memory is the fact that working memory is often times more clearly defined than long-term memory, which is probably due to the fact that the …show more content…
In these situations, individuals tend to store important memories that I utilize frequently in the short term or working memory, and other memories that are important and may be recalled intermittently, will be stored within that individual's long-term memory. Sleep plays an important role in the consolidation of memory. This has been most clearly shown in adults for procedural memory (i.e. skills and procedures) and declarative memory (e.g. recall of facts). Potkin, K. T., Bunney Jr., W. E., & García, A. V.