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Short-term (or working) memory retains recorded information for a small period of time, such as a second, in order to freeze a snapshot of the continuously changing environment around us for comparison and filtering purposes. When individuals engage with a computer or a mobile device, their short-term memory is actively used to collect information for decision making. It is critical for designers to optimize the interface and flow to reduce cognitive load and assist users in completing the task with the least amount of effort and time.
This article will describe some short-term memory characteristics and provide examples of designs that help our short-term memory.
Information stored in chunks
Associating many things as one is a significant cognitive process that takes place in the brain. The human brain uses a technique called “chunking,” in which they combine many elements into a single item so that it is much easier to remember. Short-term memory may keep around 7 pieces of information, which might fade from your brain in less than a minute.
When designing anything that requires capturing a large number or string, we should avoid asking users to remember too much, so we may separate it into smaller pieces of information. It will aid the user in swiftly detecting and remembering. For example: Using white space to separate a large number string into 4-digit chunks can assist the user in rapidly detecting the number and also reducing input errors.
If you have a lengthy list display, attempt to divide it up into smaller groups and give each group a title; this will allow viewers to read and skim the list more efficiently
