Recall is a measure of memory in which a person must retrieve information learned earlier without the help of cues, as in an essay exam or a fill-in-the-blank question. It is more difficult than recognition and is often used as a stricter test of memory.

Recall can be free, where items can be retrieved in any order, or serial, where they must be retrieved in a specific order. Retrieval cues, context, and state can all influence recall performance. The testing effect shows that actively recalling information strengthens memory more than passive review.

Key points

• Retrieval without cues
• Harder than recognition
• Free recall vs. serial recall
• Active recall improves long-term retention