Google Effects on memory

Google Effect^[1] is a psychological phenomenon where we tend to quickly forget information that we know can be easily found online.

The effect shows that the internet change how our memory works. We don't remember the information itself, but we become highly optimized at remembering where and how to find it.

For example: I remember these days

• I dont need a contact, I did remember my friend's phone number. But now, I don't even know who is calling unless their name pops up.

• I dont need Google Map, I did know where's my friend house. But now, if Google Maps doesn't tell me to turn, I'm completely lost.

• I used to use regex really good no need Google. But now, sometimes I go to MDN to check JS Date syntax.

More reading:

• https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/critical-thinking-technology/digital-amnesia-has-been-exaggerated