Fast Mapping refers to a cognitive process through which individuals acquire and retain knowledge of new concepts and form mental representations of these concepts at an accelerated pace. It is a crucial aspect of vocabulary development and is especially observed in early childhood.

Key features of Fast Mapping include:

• Quick Acquisition: Fast Mapping allows individuals to rapidly learn and understand the meaning of new words or concepts with minimal exposure or explicit instruction.
• Temporary Storage: Initially, the representation of the new concept is held in temporary or fragile memory.
• Integration with Existing Knowledge: The newly acquired concept is then connected and integrated with pre-existing knowledge and cognitive schema.
• Refinement and Consolidation: Over time, through repeated exposure and reinforcement, the representation of the concept becomes more refined, stable, and accurately linked to appropriate contexts.

This rapid mapping ability plays a vital role in language acquisition and overall cognitive development, facilitating the constant expansion of vocabulary and conceptual understanding.