Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

What does chunking refer to in memory techniques?

1. Breaking down information into smaller parts to enhance recall

2. Grouping information into larger units to improve memory capacity

3. Revisiting previously learned information multiple times

4. Creating vivid mental images to represent information

The correct answer is: Grouping information into larger units to improve memory capacity

Chunking is a cognitive strategy that enhances memory capacity by organizing information into larger, more manageable units or "chunks." This technique leverages the brain's ability to remember groups of data more effectively than individual items. For instance, rather than trying to remember a lengthy string of numbers like 149217761941, chunking allows us to break them down into smaller groups, such as 1492, 1776, and 1941. This grouping doesn't just make information easier to recall; it also takes advantage of our limited working memory capacity, allowing us to process more complex information without overwhelming cognitive resources. The other potential answers describe various other memory strategies but do not accurately define chunking. Breaking down information into smaller parts is related to methods like the "divide and conquer" technique, while revisiting learned information multiple times pertains to spaced practice or repetition. Creating vivid mental images is more aligned with the method of loci or other mnemonic devices, which also enhances memory but is distinctly different from chunking.