How do we find a memory?

[bahman]

Our collective memory is astonishing. It contains a vast amount of data. I was wondering how we could possibly so fast find a specific memory?

To use the term 'find' for memory is misleading.

The proper term re memory is 'retrieve' thus there is a retrieving mechanism in the brain/mind to bring the memory to consciousness [waking, dreaming, etc.].
Thus there is need to understand the mechanism of this retrieving system understand why memory is so instinctual and fast on recall.

"Fast" in this case is relative and the appropriate contrast is against the retrieval of information within a computer with the assumption the brain works almost like a computer.

There are many types of memory which are managed by different sub-memory mechanisms thus there is a range of speeds the types of memory are recalled.

Why there is such a speed in the recall of memory is to facilitate survival especially remembering what are the dangerous threats and where to find food for survival. Generally, the greater the threat the faster the speed of retrieval especially via spontaneous instincts.

Thanks for information.

[bahman]

What do you mean by "collective memory"?

All memory a person has gathered.

Ah! Ok.

Are you asking for what explanations have been given for how memory works or what techniques are available to retrieve memories?

I am asking about the techniques. What are them and how do they work.