TFCC 010: [The EF Formula Series] Working Memory
Welcome to The Functional Cognition Chronicles issue 010.
As always, if you'd like to catch up on previous issues, head to the TFCC blog.
Today, we're diving into another key player in executive function: working memory.
Recap: Executive Function?
As discussed previously, think of executive function as the CEO of our brain. It has the crucial skills of cognitive flexibility, working memory, and inhibition to enable us to complete the tasks of planning, organizing, adapting, and problem-solving. Within this suite of skills, working memory acts as the “notepad” that helps us "write down all the information” as it comes into play, as well as making sure we remember each piece of information, even as tasks or environments change.
What is Working Memory?
Working memory is your brain's ability to temporarily hold and manipulate information. It’s what allows us to keep things “in mind” while actively using them.
This skill is essential for completing complex tasks, following multi-step instructions, and making decisions.
How working memory supports daily life:
Holding directions in your head after someone gives them to you.
Remembering all the ingredients in a recipe while cooking.
Recalling the start of a conversation so you can respond appropriately.
Examples of Working Memory in Action
Packing for a trip: Keeping a mental checklist of items (toothbrush, socks, charger) as you gather them.
Navigating: Listening to verbal directions and mentally mapping them to reach your destination.
Problem-solving: Keeping multiple variables in mind as you calculate how long it will take to finish a task.
What Happens When Working Memory is Weak?
Working memory impairments can make day-to-day tasks feel overwhelming. People might experience:
Difficulty following multi-step directions.
Forgetting why they entered a room (we’ve all been there, but it’s more frequent for some!).
Trouble staying focused on tasks when distractions arise.
Losing track of details during conversations or tasks.
Difficulty with integrating all aspects of the problem when trying to solve it.
Strategies to Support Working Memory:
Chunk Information: Break tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Externalise: Use tools like written checklists, alarms, or sticky notes to reduce cognitive load.
Repeat and Rehearse: Encourage clients to repeat directions aloud or silently to reinforce retention.
Visualisation: Teach strategies like creating mental pictures to remember key details.
A personal note
I know for myself, working memory can be hindered during my work when I have lots of stimulation from noise around me, distractions from emails, and getting asked questions that are irrelevant. I have recently read the book by Cal Newport: Deep Work. His insight into deep work is a concept where removing ourselves from distractions and ‘shallow tasks’ such as emails, we can have a greater sense of creativity and develop greater quality solutions from our knowledge.
Perhaps this is a sense of limiting the distractions and honing in on the skills of working memory; we can relay and problem-solve greater problems in our mind, letting us do greater, grander work than we had previously. Food for thought.
Thanks for tuning in to this week’s blog!
As always, feel free to reply with any questions or insights—I’d love to hear your thoughts on how you’ve supported working memory in your clients (or yourself!).
Until next week,
Imogen.
