Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of working memory?

The choice indicating that working memory functions without any immediate input from external stimuli is accurate in identifying a characteristic that does not align with how working memory operates. Working memory is inherently dynamic and responsive to external stimuli, as it involves the temporary storage and manipulation of information that is often driven by current environmental cues or tasks at hand.

For example, when solving a math problem or following directions, individuals rely on working memory to hold relevant information while processing new input. This characteristic distinguishes it from long-term memory, which can serve as a repository of information retrieved without immediate or ongoing contextual interaction.

The other characteristics of working memory are indeed central to its definition. It serves as a crucial system for temporarily storing information, supports complex cognitive tasks such as problem-solving, and plays a significant role in decision-making and reasoning by helping individuals maintain and manipulate information as they evaluate options and outcomes.