Working memory is used for temporarily storing and manipulating information. It is critical for keeping your train of thought, making a point and just generally figuring things out. It has also been linked to aspects of fluid intelligence.
USED FOR
• Learning and reasoning
• IQ and intelligence
• Working with information in your head
Learn more about working memory:
Working Memory: What it is and how it works
Long-term and working memory: You are what you remember
Working memory and neurogenesis at the Bay Area Neuroscience Gathering
Reinforcing the neural networks involved with accessing and using knowledge can have the positive “side effect” of increasing confidence.
References:
Jaeggi, S. M., Buschkuehl, M., Jonides, J., & Perrig, W. J. (2008). Improving fluid intelligence with training on working memory. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 105(19), 6829-33.
Olesen, P. J., Westerberg, H., & Klingberg, T. (2004). Increased prefrontal and parietal activity after training of working memory. Nat Neurosci, 7(1), 75-79.
Kane, M. J., Hambrick, D. Z., & Conway, A. R. A. (2005). Working memory capacity and fluid intelligence are strongly related constructs: comment on Ackerman, Beier, and Boyle (2005). Psychological Bulletin, 131(1), 66-71; author reply 72-5.
Dahlin, E., Neely, A. S., Larsson, A., Bäckman, L., & Nyberg, L. (2008). Transfer of learning after updating training mediated by the striatum. Science (New York, N.Y.), 320(5882), 1510-2.
Chen, T., & Li, D. (2007). The roles of working memory updating and processing speed in mediating age-related differences in fluid intelligence. Neuropsychology, Development, and Cognition. Section B, Aging, Neuropsychology and Cognition, 14(6), 631-46.
