Associations are groups of people who come together for a common purpose or interest. For example, a sports association might include athletes and coaches who work together to promote a specific sport. These organizations often provide resources, training, and events to help their members succeed and connect with others who share similar passions. In addition to formal groups, associations can also refer to the mental connections we make between different ideas or experiences. For instance, the smell of freshly baked cookies might remind you of your grandmother's kitchen. These associations help us understand and navigate the world by linking new information to what we already know.