The "Levels of Processing" theory, proposed by Craik and Lockhart in 1972, suggests that memory retention depends on the depth of processing. Shallow processing involves basic features, such as recognizing a word's appearance, while deep processing focuses on meaning and associations. For example, remembering a word by its definition is more effective than just recalling its font. This theory emphasizes that deeper cognitive engagement leads to better long-term memory. Activities like elaborating on information or connecting it to personal experiences enhance understanding and recall. Thus, the way we process information significantly influences how well we remember it later.