Short-term memory is a type of memory that allows individuals to temporarily hold and manipulate information for a brief period, typically ranging from a few seconds to a minute. It is essential for tasks such as remembering a phone number long enough to dial it or following directions while navigating. This memory system has a limited capacity, often described by George A. Miller as the "magic number seven," meaning it can usually hold about seven items at once. Short-term memory plays a crucial role in daily activities and is distinct from long-term memory, which stores information for extended periods.