Work

Drawing as an encoding strategy for memory: An fNIRS study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Drawing reliably improves memory relative to other encoding strategies (such as reading and writing), a phenomenon known as the drawing effect. Although behavioral studies have documented this advantage, the neural mechanisms supporting it remain unclear. The present study examined cortical activity during drawing-based encoding using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Young adults were recruited to memorize words either by drawing the referents or silently reading them, and neural activity was recorded during encoding. The study also compared finger drawing and stylus drawing to test whether different drawing modes produce distinct behavioral or neural outcomes. Behaviorally, drawing improved item hit rate and increased motivation relative to silent reading but did not enhance source memory. Neurophysiologically, drawing elicited stronger activation than silent reading in sensorimotor cortices and the superior parietal lobule, regions implicated in motor planning and execution, sensory feedback, and visuospatial integration. In contrast, finger drawing and stylus drawing showed largely comparable behavioral and neural patterns. These findings partially support the integrated-components model of the drawing effect at the neurophysiological level.

Source: Acta Psychologica

DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2026.107871

Authors: Heping Xie, Baocheng Guo, Wanling Zhu, Zongkui Zhou

Institutions: South China Normal University, Central China Normal University

Language: English

Topic: Memory Processes and Influences

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,670

Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Major Projects of Guangdong Education Department for Foundation Research and Applied Research, Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province