Which memory type is characterized as being "conscious" and includes two pathways for storage and retrieval?

Explicit memory is characterized by being "conscious," as it involves the active recollection of information and experiences. This type of memory is further divided into two pathways: episodic memory, which encompasses personal experiences and specific events, and semantic memory, which involves facts and general knowledge. The conscious nature of explicit memory allows individuals to actively recall information or events, making it distinct from other memory types that may function without awareness.

In contrast, implicit memory refers to the unconscious retention of information, such as skills and conditioned responses, making it less accessible for direct recall. Procedural memory, a subset of implicit memory, specifically relates to how to perform tasks, such as riding a bike, which does not require conscious thought during retrieval. Short-term memory, on the other hand, focuses on temporarily holding information for brief periods and does not inherently involve the conscious retrieval of learned knowledge as is seen in explicit memory.