What is the process of finding information stored in memory called?

• A. Retrieval
• B. Recall
• C. Encoding
• D. Recognition

Answer: (A)

Finding information stored in memory is retrieval. Retrieval is the process of accessing stored information and bringing it into conscious awareness. It differs from encoding, which is how information is initially put into memory. Within retrieval, there are forms like recall and recognition. Recall involves pulling information from memory with few or no cues, such as answering an open-ended question. Recognition involves identifying the correct information when presented with cues, like choosing the right option in a multiple-choice item. In this case, the question is about the general process of getting information out of memory, so retrieval is the best fit.