>[!note] Psychology 101: Memory Systems Lecture 15 - Long-term Memory >[!aside] What are the main types of LTM? Long-term memory consists of several distinct systems that store different types of information for extended periods, ranging from minutes to decades. Unlike short-term memory, which has limited capacity and duration, long-term memory appears to have virtually unlimited storage capacity and can retain information indefinitely. These memory systems evolved to handle different cognitive demands and operate through distinct neural pathways in the brain. Understanding these systems helps explain why we can remember how to ride a bicycle after years of not cycling, yet struggle to recall specific details from a lecture we attended last week. >[!tip|inline] This appears on the right side, within the main content flow. The organisation of long-term memory into specialised systems allows for efficient encoding, storage, and retrieval of the vast amounts of information we accumulate throughout our lives. >[!aside] On Memory Procedural = skills Declarative = facts **Procedural Memory** stores information about how to perform tasks and skills, like riding a bicycle or typing on a keyboard. **Declarative Memory** is divided into two subcategories: - Episodic memory: Personal experiences and events - Semantic memory: General facts and knowledge >[!summary] Long-term memory includes procedural memory (skills) and declarative memory, which splits into episodic (personal events) and semantic (facts) systems.