The main difference between the two types of long-term memory is how implicit memory lives in the subconscious mind, whereas explicit memory comes from conscious thought, says Papazyan.

Implicit memory allows me to drive to work on autopilot, but explicit memory is what’s driving my need to be at work at 8:30 for that important Zoom call,” she explains.

A simple way to think about the difference between implicit and explicit memory is that implicit memory involves “knowing how” and explicit memory involves “knowing that.” Explicit memory ...

Both implicit and explicit memory are types of long-term memory, which is defined by the transfer of information from short-term memory into long-term storage in order to create enduring memories.