How does the length of short rest periods affect implicit probabilistic learning?

Abstract

Memory consolidation has been mainly investigated for extended periods, from hours to days. Recent studies focused on memory consolidation occurring within shorter periods, from seconds to minutes. Yet, these studies focused on explicit sequence learning with fixed rest periods. Our study aimed at determining whether short rest periods enhance implicit probabilistic sequence learning and whether the length of rest duration influences such offline changes. Participants performed an implicit probabilistic sequence learning task throughout 45 blocks. Between blocks, participants were allowed to rest and then to continue the task at their pace. The results show that probabilistic sequence knowledge decreased from pre-to post-rest periods, and this decrement was not related to the length of rest duration. These results suggest that probabilistic sequence knowledge decays during short rest periods and that such forgetting is not time-dependent. Overall, our findings highlight that ultra-fast consolidation differently affects distinct cognitive processes.