Fig. 1. The continuous recognition task (CRT) is ideal to differentiate working and long-term memory processes. Recognition of pictures was tested at either a 6-s interval from working memory or a 27-s one from long-term memory during the CRT. Note that the term “long” refers to a memory process different from working memory, even though the interval is less than 1 minute. Recognition at 27 s cannot be from working memory, as by that time the contents of working memory have been replaced by new material that must be attended to in performance of the CRT. In the current study, the CRT consisted of a standardized series of photographic pictures from the International Affective Picture System, with one picture presented every 3 s. Most pictures were repeated to maximize the efficiency of the task. The volunteer categorized each picture as either old ( i.e. , a repeat) or new (first presentation) using a button press. Measures of the effect of sedation on task performance included changes in reaction times and errors in the correct categorization of pictures.