Lucky Guess Not Always Lucky

Research reveals that guesses are not always guesses - the brain may know the answer even though we don't realize it.

In the study, participants had to memorize half of a number of brightly colored pictures. While viewing the other half, they concentrated on remembering a spoken number - i.e. they were distracted. When quizzed on the images later, they were more successful at remembering those images that they looked at while remembering a spoken number - i.e. when their brain was distracted. Also, participants were more accurate when they said they were just guessing.

Researchers say their visual systems accurately stored memories, even when not paying attention. It suggests that "gut feelings" may often be based on good information.