In cognitive psychology, the ability to mentally represent the layout of one's home is best described as which of the following?

• A. A schema
• B. A mental set
• C. A prototype
• D. A cognitive map

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key terms provided in the options. A 'schema' is a mental framework that helps organize knowledge about a concept or category.
2. Step 2: Recognize that a 'mental set' refers to a tendency to approach problems in a particular way, often based on past experiences, rather than representing spatial layouts.
3. Step 3: Know that a 'prototype' is the best example or most typical member of a category, not a spatial representation.
4. Step 4: Identify that a 'cognitive map' is a mental representation of the spatial layout of an environment, such as one's home, allowing navigation and understanding of spatial relationships.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the ability to mentally represent the layout of one's home aligns with the concept of a 'cognitive map' because it involves spatial knowledge and mental navigation.