How is information in short-term memory characterized?

The characterization of information in short-term memory indeed aligns with the aspects of being held in conscious awareness and being subject to manipulation. Short-term memory, often associated with working memory, allows individuals to actively process and manage information over a brief period. This can include tasks such as problem-solving, reasoning, and active engagement with the material, where individuals can hold onto information while using it for tasks that require immediate focus.

In short-term memory, the information is not just stored but is actively worked on, which is crucial for tasks that require mental effort, such as following a conversation or completing a math problem in your head. This process plays a vital role in how we learn and remember information.

Other options depict characteristics that do not accurately describe short-term memory. Short-term memory does not store information passively; rather, active engagement is key. It also does not retain information indefinitely without decay, as short-term memory is known for its limited duration, typically lasting from about 15 to 30 seconds without rehearsal. Lastly, while visual memory can be a component of short-term memory, it is not limited to visual information; short-term memory encompasses various modalities, including auditory and semantic information. Hence, the correct option aligns best with the active and manipulatable nature