What type of memory involves recalling personal past experiences?

Episodic memory refers specifically to the ability to recall personal past experiences, including the context in which they occurred, such as time and place. This type of memory is a subset of long-term memory and is responsible for storing autobiographical events. It allows individuals to recollect significant moments in their lives, like a birthday party or a vacation, complete with thoughts and emotions associated with those events.

Implicit memory, on the other hand, involves unconscious recollections, such as riding a bike or playing an instrument, and does not require active recall of personal experiences. Semantic memory includes general knowledge about the world, such as facts and concepts, without any ties to personal experiences. Long-term memory is a broader category that encompasses both episodic and semantic memory, as well as other types, but does not specifically hone in on personal recollections. Thus, episodic memory is the most accurate choice when it comes to recalling personal past experiences.