Prime numbers are used to code various dimensions of an input matrix (receptor surface), i.e., prime numbers code the position of each cell in the matrix, the position of each column and row constituted by the cells of the matrix, and the orientation of each such column or row. The coding permits any pattern or stimulus configuration to be changed into a single, unique number, viz., the serial product of the prime numbers which code the relevant dimensions of the pattern. Storage of a pattern is effected by storage of the serial product. By factoring the serial product, the pattern or stimulus configuration is analyzed into the dimensions (features) specified by the code. The factorization is also utilized in abstracting a schema, in approximating a feature count model, and in presenting a strategy for holistic vs sequential pattern processing. Finally, the relationship between the serial product representing a pattern and the phenomenal experience of a pattern is explored.