Short-term memory as a response preparation state

Abstract

This review considers recent findings on motor-response programming which indicate that there is a temporary mode of storage for response commands. This storage, which is distinct from long-term memory, is required for emission of a programmed response even when there are no explicit requirements for memory. Although this system is considered to be primarily a stage in response control rather than a memory system, it may mediate verbal short-term memory when encoded in articulatory form. The implications of this perspective on short-term memory are considered.