In the context of the structure of language and memory, before using memory processes, you must first ______ the information you are about to study.

• A. encode
• B. retrieve
• C. forget
• D. rehearse

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key stages of memory processing: encoding, storage, and retrieval.
2. Recognize that before any memory process (like storage or retrieval) can occur, the information must first be transformed into a form that the memory system can use; this is called encoding.
3. Encoding involves converting sensory input into a mental representation that can be stored in memory.
4. Review the options given: 'encode', 'retrieve', 'forget', and 'rehearse', and identify which one logically fits the initial step in memory processing.
5. Conclude that the correct term to fill in the blank is 'encode', as it is the necessary first step before using memory processes.