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Abstract

Visual working memory (VWM) relies on a distributed cortical network. Yet, the extent to which
individual cortical areas, like early visual cortex and intraparietal sulcus, are essential to VWM
storage remains debated. Here, we reanalyze key datasets from two independent labs to
address three topics at the forefront of current-day VWM research: Resiliency of mnemonic
representations against visual distraction, the role of attentional priority in memory, and brain–
behavior relationships. By utilizing different analysis approaches, each designed to test different
aspects of mnemonic coding, our results provide a comprehensive perspective on the role of
early visual and intraparietal areas. We emphasize the importance of analysis choices, and how
a thorough understanding of the principles they test is crucial for unraveling the distributed
mechanisms of VWM. Consequently, we caution against the idea of a singular essential storage
area, which could limit our comprehension of the VWM system.