The nature of forgetting refers to the process by which information is lost from memory over time. This can occur due to various factors, including the passage of time, interference from new information, or a lack of retrieval cues. Forgetting is a normal part of memory function and can help the brain prioritize important information. Research in psychology, particularly studies by Hermann Ebbinghaus, has shown that forgetting often follows a predictable pattern, known as the forgetting curve. This curve illustrates how information is rapidly forgotten shortly after learning, with the rate of forgetting slowing down over time. Understanding this process can help improve memory retention strategies.