How the test works
- A number appears for a few seconds.
- When it disappears, type it back and press Enter.
- Each correct answer adds one digit to the next number.
- One wrong answer ends the test. Your score is the longest number you got right.
What it measures
This is a digit span test, one of the oldest measures of short-term memory. Psychologist George Miller famously put the typical span at "seven, plus or minus two". With memory techniques, people can learn to remember far longer numbers.
What is a good score?
| Score | Better than about |
|---|---|
| 12 digits | 99% of people (top 1%) |
| 10 digits | 90% of people (top 10%) |
| 9 digits | 75% of people |
| 8 digits | 50% of people (average) |
| 6 digits | 25% of people |
Estimated from typical scores for this kind of test.
Tips to improve
- Chunk the digits into groups, like a phone number: 482 913 57.
- Say the number to yourself in a rhythm while it is on screen.
- Turn chunks into meaning: dates, ages, sports scores.
- Advanced players use systems like the major system, which turns digits into words.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average digit span?
Most adults can reliably repeat about 7 digits. Remembering 9 or more puts you well above average, and 12 or more is rare without a memory technique.
How long is the number shown?
One second plus about half a second per digit, so longer numbers stay on screen longer.
Can I improve my score?
Yes, quickly. Chunking alone adds 2 to 3 digits for most people. Memory athletes using trained systems can recall hundreds of digits.