> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://leviaprotocol.gitbook.io/leviaprotocol/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://leviaprotocol.gitbook.io/leviaprotocol/core-concepts/memory-management/short-term-memory.md).

# Short-term memory

**Short-term Memory** holds transient information that is relevant within a short period. This type of memory is time-sensitive and will naturally decay based on a **time-weighting mechanism**. Older or less relevant memories are eventually discarded or archived, but they are never fully erased unless explicitly instructed. Short-term memory is stored with timestamps in a general-purpose **database** and is indexed for efficient decay management.

**Short-term Memory Contents**

* User conversation context and chat history
* Recent tasks and activities performed by the system
* User preferences and interaction patterns
* Active jobs and ongoing processes
* Temporary system states and configurations

**Decay and Time-Weighted Memory** For **Short-Term Memory**, the decay mechanism ensures efficient management of recent user interactions and preferences. The time-weighting mechanism:

* Prioritizes recent interactions and preferences
* Gradually reduces relevance of older context
* Archives less-accessed but potentially important user preferences
* Maintains active job states until completion
* Preserves critical user context for ongoing interactions