What is the episodic buffer in the working memory model?

• A. A central processor that stores long-term memories.
• B. A temporary store for visual-spatial information only.
• C. A subsystem that coordinates the phonological and visuo-spatial loops.
• D. A store within the short-term store that holds chunks of information and connects working memory components with sensory perception and long-term memory.

Answer: (D)

The episodic buffer serves as a temporary, limited‑capacity store that can hold and combine information from the phonological loop and the visuospatial sketchpad, as well as retrieved content from long‑term memory, to form a coherent, multimodal episode. It provides an amodal representation that the conscious system can work with, acting as the interface that connects working memory with perception and long‑term memory. Its capacity is small (about four chunks), and it enables binding across modalities, so you can recall a unified experience rather than separate bits of verbal or visual information.