What is the term for the process of grouping similar pieces of information that lasts for about a minute?

The term for the process of grouping similar pieces of information that lasts for about a minute is known as short-term memory. This cognitive function allows individuals to temporarily hold and manipulate information, making it essential for tasks such as remembering a phone number long enough to dial it or keeping track of directions while navigating. Short-term memory typically has a limited capacity, often described by George Miller's "magic number" as being able to hold about seven items at once.

In contrast, working memory is often used interchangeably with short-term memory, but it specifically refers to the active process of temporarily holding and manipulating information. It involves not just storing information for a brief period but also integrating and processing that information in real-time, thus carrying out complex cognitive tasks.

Selective attention refers to the ability to focus on specific stimuli in the environment while ignoring others. It is related to perception and can influence what enters short-term memory but does not directly involve the grouping of information. Long-term memory involves the storage of information over extended periods, far beyond the duration of a minute, and often integrates experiences and knowledge retained for days, years, or even a lifetime.