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What is the process of actively maintaining information in short-term memory called?

  1. Consolidation

  2. Encoding

  3. Rehearsal

  4. Retrieval

The correct answer is: Rehearsal

The process of actively maintaining information in short-term memory is referred to as rehearsal. This technique involves repeating information over and over to keep it in mind and prevent it from fading. Rehearsal can take various forms, such as verbal repetition or visual imagery, and is critical for retaining information for tasks like studying or remembering phone numbers. Consolidation refers to the process of transferring information from short-term to long-term memory, which is not what the question is addressing. Encoding is the initial process of taking in information such that it can be stored in memory but does not specifically imply the active maintenance aspect. Retrieval involves accessing information that has already been stored in memory, rather than actively keeping it in short-term memory. Thus, rehearsal is the most accurate term for the active maintenance of information in the short term.