The subject disclosure describes a method for performing error code correction, the method includes, loading a code word including a plurality of encoded bits into a memory array, initializing, into one or more of a plurality of memory units, a plurality of bits associated with each of the encoded bits, wherein the plurality of bits initialized for each of the encoded bits is based on a value of the associated encoded bit and wherein the plurality of encoded bits and the plurality of bits initialized for each of the encoded bits includes soft information. In certain aspects, the method further includes decoding the code word using the soft information and outputting the decoded code word from the memory array. A decoder and flash storage device are also provided.