Long-Term Memory-Encoding

Encoding refers to the initial acquisition of information. It is during this process that information enters our memories.
The Levels of Processing Approach predicts a high level of recall when we process information for meaning, make associations, create images, form a relationship to previous experiences, and when we analyze the information. In addition, when we look for the distinctiveness (how different is it) and we make elaborations (processing in terms of meaning and interrelated concepts) we use a deeper level of processing. Whereas if we only process information on sound and characteristics we are using shallow processing.
Levels of Processing and The Self-Reference Effect
Types of instructions(process for meaning or only characteristics of)affect the level of processing, either deep or shallow processing, that takes place and elaboration increases the likelihood of recall.
Our cognitive system handles positive occurrences better than negative occurrences. that is we are more likely to remember something if we can relate it to ourself.
Visualizing and imagining yourself using the object generates greater recall of the word related to the object.
Self-reference instructions encourage us to make connections to ourselves
The self acts as strong set of cues
Self-reference instructions encourage us to evaluate how our traits relate to one another
We tend to rehearse material more frequently when it is related to us
Encoding Specificity Principle states that recall is better if the encoding and retrieval contexts are similar. An example of this is when we teach children in one room, they should be tested in the same room. A personal example of this is when I study, I try to do it at the library which is similar to a classrooom.
Type of memory tasks
Recall is when we produce an item that was learned earlier and recognition is when we identify items that have been learned earlier. An example of recall is an essay test. An example of recognition is a multiple choice test (your drivers license test).
Encoding specificity effect is more likely to occur when tasks test recall, use real life events, and study events that happened long ago.


References
Another reference
Matlin, M.W. (2005),Cognition (6th ed.) Wiley and Sons
Additional Reference I obtained information