WMS-IV (Wechsler Memory Scale - Fourth Edition): Current standard memory test

About the WMS-IV (Wechsler Memory Scale - Fourth Edition)

WMS-IV (2009) is the current edition of the Wechsler Memory Scale, first published 1945. It has 7 subtests: Logical Memory I and II, Verbal Paired Associates I and II, Designs I and II (visual), Visual Reproduction I and II, Spatial Addition, Symbol Span. The "I" and "II" refer to immediate and 20-30 minute delayed recall conditions.

WMS-IV yields 5 Index scores: Auditory Memory Index, Visual Memory Index, Visual Working Memory Index, Immediate Memory Index, Delayed Memory Index. Together they provide a comprehensive memory profile useful for distinguishing different memory disorders (Korsakoff, Alzheimer's, frontal amnesia, etc.).

WMS-IV is co-normed with WAIS-IV (both 2008 standardization sample), enabling direct IQ-memory discrepancy analysis - a key diagnostic procedure for learning disabilities and amnestic conditions. WMS-IV is one of the most-used neuropsychological tests; clinical administration takes 30-45 minutes.

The 6 subtests

What the test looks like

WMS-IV is examiner-administered. The examiner reads stories, word pairs, and instructions; presents visual designs; and asks for immediate and delayed recall. The test takes 30-45 minutes total because of the delay periods between immediate and delayed conditions.

Logical Memory: The examiner reads a 2-paragraph story aloud. The test-taker immediately recalls all details they can remember. After a 20-30 minute delay, they recall the same story again (without rehearing it).

Verbal Paired Associates: The examiner reads 10-14 word pairs (e.g., "table-blue"). The test-taker repeats the second word when given the first. The list is read 4 times with recall tested after each. Delayed recall happens 20-30 minutes later.

Visual Reproduction: The examiner shows the test-taker a geometric design for 10 seconds. The test-taker draws it from memory immediately, then again after a 20-30 minute delay.

Designs: The test-taker views a card with shapes in specific spatial locations for a few seconds. They then reproduce the design by placing cards in the correct positions.

Specific stories, word pairs, and designs are Pearson trade secrets. Actual items are not published in any public source.

Source

All test materials and historical content on this page are transcribed from:

Wechsler, D. (2009). WMS-IV Technical and Interpretive Manual. NCS Pearson.

WMS-IV is the current standard memory test. Pearson holds active copyright.