Signal Detection Theory (SDT) has had, and continues to have, an
enormous impact on many branches of psychology. Although its initial
applications were in the interpretation of sensory processes, its domain
has since widened considerably. For example, concepts derived
from SDT are widely used in memory research and in studies of the
processing of verbal information. SDT has been called by many a revolution
and I do not think that is an exaggeration. A basic understanding
of SDT has become essential for anyone with a serious interest in
experimental psychology.
