The Morris water maze (MWM) is a widely used test for assessing spatial learning and memory in rodents. The MWM involves placing animals in a circular pool filled with water, where they must navigate to a hidden platform using distal cues. The basic procedure includes repeated trials where animals are released from different starting positions to find the platform. Reference memory is assessed through probe trials, where the platform is removed and the animal's preference for the platform area is measured. Reversal and shift trials enhance the detection of spatial impairments. The MWM can also assess trial-dependent, latent, and discrimination learning, as well as working memory. The platform can be relocated to different quadrants or reduced in size to test spatial accuracy. Cued trials, where the platform is made visible, serve as a control to assess non-spatial factors. The MWM has been linked to hippocampal synaptic plasticity and NMDA receptor function, making it a valuable tool in neuroscience research. Proper setup, control procedures, and appropriate tank size are crucial for reliable results. The MWM is a robust and reliable test that has been widely replicated, advancing our understanding of spatial learning and memory.The Morris water maze (MWM) is a widely used test for assessing spatial learning and memory in rodents. The MWM involves placing animals in a circular pool filled with water, where they must navigate to a hidden platform using distal cues. The basic procedure includes repeated trials where animals are released from different starting positions to find the platform. Reference memory is assessed through probe trials, where the platform is removed and the animal's preference for the platform area is measured. Reversal and shift trials enhance the detection of spatial impairments. The MWM can also assess trial-dependent, latent, and discrimination learning, as well as working memory. The platform can be relocated to different quadrants or reduced in size to test spatial accuracy. Cued trials, where the platform is made visible, serve as a control to assess non-spatial factors. The MWM has been linked to hippocampal synaptic plasticity and NMDA receptor function, making it a valuable tool in neuroscience research. Proper setup, control procedures, and appropriate tank size are crucial for reliable results. The MWM is a robust and reliable test that has been widely replicated, advancing our understanding of spatial learning and memory.