What is the process of returning information from long-term memory to working memory for problem-solving called?

The process of returning information from long-term memory to working memory for problem-solving is referred to as retrieval. Retrieval is a fundamental cognitive process involved in accessing information stored in long-term memory.

When you encounter a problem or a situation that requires you to use previously learned information, the brain engages in retrieval to access that stored data. It allows individuals to draw upon their memories and apply them contextually to current tasks or challenges. Successful retrieval can manifest in various forms, such as recalling specific facts, applying learned skills, or using experiences to generate solutions.

In contrast, while recognition involves identifying previously encountered information when presented with it again, recall specifically pertains to retrieving information without cues. Spreading activation relates to a theory in cognitive psychology that explains how activating one concept in memory can trigger the retrieval of related concepts, but it does not define the process of problem-solving with respect to long-term and working memory. Therefore, retrieval is the most accurate terminology for this process.