Memory is an important component of our knowledge, learning, and activities.
We go through many experiences every day, some of which allow us to acquire new information and others in which we merely repeat things that we have done before.
But how can you tell the difference between these two sorts of memory? Our goal is to explain the difference between declarative and nondeclarative memory.
What is non-declarative memory?
Non-declarative memory, also called implicit memory, is a type of long-term memory that doesn’t require conscious thought or recollection to access.
Examples of non-declarative memory include things like riding a bike and knowing how to do math.
Essentially, any skill or knowledge that you have acquired without being aware of it is stored in your non-declarative memory.
One of the most important aspects of non-declarative memory is that it can be acquired and used without you even realizing it.
For example, when you first start riding a bike, you have to think about every single move you make. But after a while, you can ride without having to think about it at all.
This is because the skills you need to ride a bike have been transferred from your conscious mind to your non-declarative memory.
Read also: What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?
What are the differences between declarative and non-declarative memory?
Now that we know a little bit about what non-declarative memory is let’s compare it to declarative memory.
Declarative memory, also known as explicit memory, is the type of long-term memory that involves conscious thought and recollection. Examples of declarative memory include things like remembering the capital of France or knowing what happened yesterday.
The difference between declarative and non-declarative memory are:
Conscious
Declarative memory is the type of memory that requires conscious thought to access. This includes memories of facts and events, as well as personal experiences.
Non-declarative memory does not require conscious thought to access. This includes skills and habits, as well as emotional memories.
Stored in the brain
The hippocampus is important for forming new declarative memories, while the amygdala is important for emotional memories.
Reliable
This is because it can be influenced by our moods, emotions, and other factors.
Non-declarative memory is usually more reliable than declarative memory. This is because it is not as easily influenced by our emotions and other factors.
Read also: Photographic Memory vs Eidetic Memory
What are the different types of non-declarative memory?
Non-declarative memory can be divided into two main types: implicit memory and procedural memory.
Implicit memory
Implicit memory is a type of non-declarative memory that doesn’t require conscious thought or recollection to access. Examples of implicit memory include things like riding a bike and knowing how to do the math.
Essentially, any skill or knowledge that you have acquired without being aware of it is stored in your implicit memory.
One of the most important aspects of implicit memory is that it can be acquired and used without you even realizing it.
For example, when you first start riding a bike, you have to think about every single move you make. But after a while, you can ride without having to think about it at all.
Procedural memory
Procedural memory is a type of non-declarative memory that involves the learning of skills and habits. Examples of procedural memory include things like riding a bike, driving a car or knowing how to tie your shoes.
Procedural memory is often thought of as a type of implicit memory. This is because it can be acquired and used without you even realizing it.
However, there is a key difference between procedural memory and implicit memory. Implicit memory does not usually involve the conscious awareness of what is being learned, while procedural memory does.
For example, when you first start riding a bike, you have to think about every single move you make. But after a while, you can ride without having to think about it at all.
This is because the skills you need to ride a bike have been transferred from your conscious mind to your procedural memory.
Read also: What Part of the Brain Controls Emotions?
How to improve non-declarative memory?
There are a few things you can do to improve your non-declarative memory:
Get plenty of sleep
Most people are aware that sleep is important for overall health and well-being, but few realize that it is also essential for memory function.
According to research, sleep plays a key role in consolidating memories and forming new ones.
In fact, studies have shown that people who get a good night’s sleep are better able to remember information than those who do not.
This is because sleep provides the brain with an opportunity to process and store information. Therefore, if you are looking to improve your non-declarative memory, be sure to get plenty of rest.
Exercise regularly
Exercise has been shown to improve all types of memory, including non-declarative memory. In fact, research has shown that people who exercise regularly are better able to remember information than those who do not.
This is because exercise increases the level of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in the brain.
BDNF is a protein that helps to protect and repair brain cells. Therefore, by increasing BDNF levels, exercise helps to improve memory function.
Eat a healthy diet
What you eat can also have an impact on your memory function. Studies have shown that people who eat a healthy diet are better able to remember information than those who do not.
This is because a healthy diet provides the brain with the nutrients it needs to function properly. Therefore, if you are looking to improve your non-declarative memory, be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and healthy fats.
Challenge your mind
Another great way to improve your non-declarative memory is to challenge your mind on a regular basis. This can be done by learning new skills, doing puzzles or even taking up a new hobby.
By challenging your mind, you can help to keep it sharp and improve your memory function.
Read also: When Are Brains Fully Developed?
The takeaway
Non-declarative memory is a type of memory that does not involve conscious awareness of what is being learned. Examples of non-declarative memory include things like procedural memory and implicit memory.
There are a few things you can do to improve your non-declarative memory, including getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet.
You can also challenge your mind on a regular basis to help keep it sharp and improve your memory function.