What does sensory memory act as in cognitive processing?

Sensory memory functions as a temporary buffer for sensory information, capturing and holding fleeting impressions of sensory stimuli from the environment, such as sights, sounds, and smells, for a very short duration. This initial stage of memory allows individuals to retain sensory input long enough for some processing to occur, enabling the brain to determine what information is worth further attention and transfer into short-term memory.

For example, when you quickly glance at an image, sensory memory allows you to hold onto that visual input momentarily so you can decide whether to focus on it or not. This brief retention is essential for transitioning information into more durable memory systems, as it acts as the first point of contact for the mind to process incoming stimuli before deciding what to keep or discard.