The brain’s working memory holds information briefly. Working memory helps people process and use data quickly. A new study shows how the brain manages multiple items in working memory. Researchers studied how people remember spatial locations. Imagine spotting two books on a messy bookshelf. Working memory tracks their positions for a short time.

The study used an fMRI machine to scan participants’ brains. fMRI measures brain activity by detecting blood flow. Participants saw two dots on a screen for half a second. They memorized the dots’ positions. One dot, the high-priority item, was more important to remember. Twelve seconds later, participants recalled one dot’s location. Usually, they reported the high-priority dot’s position. Sometimes, they recalled the low-priority dot. The brain showed different activity for each dot. The visual cortex, which processes visual information, represented the high-priority dot clearly. The low-priority dot appeared less precise, with lower resolution.

Brain resource allocation

The frontal cortex, which makes decisions, worked with the visual cortex. It directed more resources to the high-priority dot. This ensured better recall of its location. Participants placed the high-priority dot closer to its actual spot than the low-priority one. The study revealed the frontal cortex’s role in prioritizing memory. It decides which item gets more attention. The visual cortex creates the mental image of the dots. Together, they manage limited memory resources effectively.

The research also decoded brain activity for two items at once. This technique shows how the brain handles multiple thoughts. Scientists may use this method more in the future. The study clarifies debates about working memory. Both the frontal and visual cortexes play key roles. The findings could improve understanding of memory processes. They may help in fields like education or neuroscience.

The researchers have described the methods and results of this study in a paper published in Science Advances.