Which of the following is a primary function of working memory according to the Three Box Model of Memory?

• A. Filtering out irrelevant sensory information before it reaches sensory memory
• B. Storing information permanently for long-term retrieval
• C. Holding and manipulating information for short periods to support reasoning and decision-making
• D. Encoding sensory input directly into long-term memory without processing

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the Three Box Model of Memory, which includes sensory memory, working memory (or short-term memory), and long-term memory, each with distinct functions.
2. Identify the role of sensory memory as briefly holding sensory information and filtering irrelevant stimuli before passing relevant data to working memory.
3. Recognize that long-term memory is responsible for storing information permanently for later retrieval.
4. Focus on the primary function of working memory, which is to hold and manipulate information temporarily to support cognitive tasks such as reasoning, learning, and decision-making.
5. Compare the options given and select the one that aligns with working memory's role: holding and manipulating information for short periods to support reasoning and decision-making.