Drawing as an encoding strategy for memory: An fNIRS study

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.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Acta Psychologica, 2026 · DOI ↗