Hmm, interesting question.
For all examples, I mostly "rack my mind" to retrieve memory. I use a thinking and concept style called compartmentalization, which is one of my go-to methods for everything. I try to mentally tag info as much as I can and place them in a related field.
Another thing about memory that is hard to describe is that depending on my environment, a certain mindset will determine how well I can remember an event. For example, it would be hard to remember specifics of my substance use with people around me who are not open to it. But around friends who I share these experiences with, I will automatically start to remember many of these experiences. So any memories related to my environment are more easily retrieved detail-wise.
I think visualization works the best, which is tied to the broader scope of recognition. All 5 senses can and will be used too, and it's better when several are combined. However, none of these senses are really necessary, since one can remember things subconsciously too. This happens when we can't explain what we recognize, but usually we'll remember how soon enough.
I can remember many things in detail, because not only do I analyze and think a lot for the fun of it, I'm receptive to just about anything. Keeping an open mind and challenging my own insights allows for the easy intake of outside information. Experience, and especially experiencing many different kinds of events and activities, (socially and alone) gives your mind the ability to process new information and be able to adapt. This has definitely helped me remember things better. Nothing can replace the experience of going through it yourself.
Practically everyone can remember events that are especially meaningful or life-changing, and it doesn't matter whether it's positive or negative. But it's what you allow yourself to be open to about it, that probably determines how well you can retrieve memories, eg. what you choose to do afterwards. Without acceptance, many memories (especially secondary details in relation to it) are forgotten.
So if you want to forget something, you probably could for the most part. As a habit though, I pretty much never do this. When I see people I know (or objects and ideas), all memories good and bad are instantly retrievable, and I strive to remember them so that I do not forget many important aspects that should be noted.
Tl:dr accept everything with a grain of salt, or more, keep an open mind and be receptive to all types of information like a sponge. Then your memory will stay sharp and keep growing. All of this allows one to remember and retrieve all types of info in at least several ways at a time. Though the main component in remembering things is recognizing (present) and relating (past), as well as simply retrieving info straight from your memory (such as when you are asked a question) by being receptive of as much info as you are exposed to.
Anyway, this is what I do, so this is all I can add.
