Procedural memory is memory storage of skills and procedures. This type of memory has also been referred to as ‘tacit knowledge’ or ‘implicit knowledge’. Procedural memory is involved in tasks such as remembering how to swim or how to ride a bicycle. This is ‘knowhow’ memory; it often can only be expressed by performing the specific skill and people have problems verbalizing what they are doing and why. Procedural memory is, therefore, very important in human motor performance.
Procedural memory has been broken down into three separate groups: conditioned reflexes, emotional associations, and skills and habits. Each of these memories is associated with probable anatomical structures in the brain. Memories and learning of conditioned reflexes such as pulling your hand away from a hot fire is related to the cerebellum. On the other hand, emotional associations such as knowing when to be afraid or mad in a particular situation are related to the amygdala.