What is a working memory test?
A working memory test measures how much information you can hold in mind and use at the same time. The classic version is digit span: repeat a growing list of digits, forwards or backwards, until you make mistakes. Your span is the longest list you got right.
The most widely used model, from Alan Baddeley and Graham Hitch (1974), splits working memory into parts. Tap one to see which round of this test leans on it.
Central executiveDirects attention and decides what to hold, update or ignore. It's busiest when you have to change information, not just store it.
THE TEST
Digits forward
Digits forward–
Digits backward–
Spatial sequence–
TRIAL LOG
Each sequence you attempt appears here. Get one right and the next is one item longer; miss two at the same length and the round ends.
CHUNKING
Twelve letters, or four things?
Span limits apply to chunks, not raw items. Group letters into familiar units and the same string suddenly fits comfortably in memory. It's why phone numbers are split into blocks.
F
B
I
C
I
A
N
A
S
A
U
K
12separate letters: beyond most people's span
How many things can we hold? The estimate keeps changing
123456789
1887≈ 7Joseph Jacobs' digit spanOne of the first span tests, given to London schoolchildren; span grew with age.
19567 ± 2Miller's magical numberGeorge Miller's famous paper on the limits of short-term memory and absolute judgement.
1974modelBaddeley & HitchWorking memory as several cooperating parts rather than one store.
2001≈ 4Cowan's chunk limitNelson Cowan argued the true limit is about 3–5 chunks once rehearsal and grouping are prevented.
A PRACTICE PATH
Work through these in order: store, then locate, then update. Finish the test and we'll highlight where to start.From holding items to updating them
STEP 1
5 minSTEP 2
5 minSTEP 3
10 min