Memory Encoding, Storage, and Retrieval (6B) Practice Test

In a divided-attention experiment, participants study a list of 40 words. Half study while simultaneously counting backward by sevens (dual-task), and half study with full attention. At test, all participants receive either (i) a free-recall test or (ii) a recognition test (between-subjects). The dual-task group shows a large drop in free recall but a smaller drop in recognition.

Which statement best reflects the memory process described in terms of encoding demands and retrieval support?

A clinic evaluates a patient who reports “blanking” during exams despite doing well on practice questions at home. The clinician notes that the patient studies in a quiet bedroom using typed notes but takes exams in a crowded lecture hall with a strict time limit. When the patient completes a practice test in the lecture hall under timed conditions, performance improves markedly without additional studying.

Which outcome would be expected given a context- and state-dependent retrieval account of the patient’s difficulty?