Number Memory
Memorize increasingly long sequences of numbers. Each level adds one digit.
Your Performance
Your Best
Statistics
About This Game
Number Memory challenges you to remember a sequence of digits that grows by one each round. It approximates your digit span—the number of items you can hold and recall in short-term memory.
How It Works
- A number appears briefly on the screen.
- Type the exact sequence after it disappears.
- Each correct round increases the length by one.
- The run ends when an incorrect sequence is entered.
Scoring
Your score is the maximum sequence length recalled correctly (digit span). Most adults score between 6 and 9; regular practice can improve performance.
Tips
- Chunk digits into groups (e.g., 1492 → 14·92).
- Rehearse with a steady rhythm to strengthen recall.
- Look for visual patterns or familiar groupings.
How to Play
Instructions
- Memorize the number sequence shown on screen.
- When it hides, type the exact sequence from memory.
- Each level adds one digit to the sequence.
- You have 3 lives; each mistake costs 1 life.
- The average adult digit span is around 7.
The Science Behind
🧠Cognitive Theory
Number memory tests digit span, a core component of working memory that reflects the brain's ability to temporarily hold and manipulate numerical information. This number memory cognitive function is fundamental to mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and everyday tasks requiring numerical processing. Number memory testing provides insights into working memory capacity.
⚡Neural Mechanisms
The phonological loop in working memory temporarily stores verbal and numerical information through rehearsal. The prefrontal cortex coordinates attention and control processes, while the parietal cortex processes numerical magnitude and spatial relationships between digits.
Key Brain Areas:
📊Research Findings
The average adult digit span is 7±2 items, as established by George Miller's famous research on memory capacity.
— Miller, G.A. (1956). The magical number seven, plus or minus two
Number memory training can improve digit span by 2-3 digits with intensive practice over 4-6 weeks.
— Jaeggi et al. (2008). Improving fluid intelligence with training on working memory
Chunking strategies can effectively double digit span capacity by grouping numbers into meaningful units.
— Cowan, N. (2001). The magical number 4 in short-term memory
🔗Related Cognitive Tests
Tests similar working memory systems using words instead of number memory
Combines working memory with visual-spatial processing
Statistics & Benchmarks
📈Score Distribution
👥Demographic Differences
Age Groups
Education Level
📊Training Effects
* Statistics based on aggregated user data and cognitive research studies
Real-World Applications
Academic & Learning
Applications:
- Mathematics
- Science calculations
- Statistical analysis
- Data processing
Examples:
Professional Skills
Applications:
- Accounting
- Banking
- Engineering
- Research
Examples:
Daily Activities
Applications:
- Phone numbers
- Addresses
- Passwords
- Shopping
Examples:
💼Career Relevance
Finance & Accounting
Essential for mental calculations and number verification
Engineering & Sciences
Critical for handling complex numerical data and measurements
Education & Training
Helps teachers manage classroom data and student information
🏠Daily Life Benefits
Phone number recall
Remember contact information without looking it up using number memory skills
Shopping calculations
Quick mental math for budgeting and comparisons with number memory
Password security
Better ability to remember complex numerical passwords through number memory
Address navigation
Recall street numbers and postal codes accurately using number memory
Academic performance
Improved ability to work with mathematical concepts via number memory training
Ready to Improve Your Cognitive Abilities?
Regular practice can lead to measurable improvements in these real-world skills.
Training Guide
Beginner Level
Goals:
- Reach consistent 5-6 digit number memory recall
- Learn basic number memory chunking
- Develop rhythm
Exercises:
Start with 3-4 digit numbers
Group digits in pairs (12-34-56)
Say numbers with steady beat
Intermediate Level
Goals:
- Achieve 7-8 digit span
- Master chunking strategies
- Reduce errors
Exercises:
Try different grouping patterns
Faster presentation speeds
Practice with distractions
Advanced Level
Goals:
- Reach 9+ digit capacity
- Handle complex patterns
- Maintain under pressure
Exercises:
10+ digit challenges
Find number patterns quickly
Remember while doing other tasks
⚠️Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Trying to remember each digit individually
✅ Solution: Group digits into chunks of 2-4 for easier recall
❌ Not using rehearsal strategies
✅ Solution: Actively repeat the sequence mentally during presentation
❌ Getting overwhelmed by long sequences
✅ Solution: Break down into smaller, manageable groups
❌ Rushing through without encoding
✅ Solution: Take time to properly encode each chunk before moving on
📊Track Your Progress
Maximum Span
Target: 8+ digitsLongest sequence recalled correctly
Consistency
Target: > 80%Percentage of successful attempts at your level
Error Rate
Target: < 15%Frequency of digit order mistakes
Improvement Rate
Target: +1 digit/monthSpan increase over time
💡Pro Tips for Success
FAQ
How long is the sequence visible?
The sequence is displayed for approximately 1 second per digit, giving you enough time to encode each number. For example, a 5-digit sequence shows for about 5 seconds.
Are leading zeros possible?
Yes. Sequences may start with 0; make sure to include every digit exactly as shown, including any leading zeros.
What is my final score?
Your score is the highest level reached (maximum sequence length recalled correctly). This represents your digit span capacity.
What's considered a good digit span?
The average adult can remember 7±2 digits. A span of 8-9 is above average, while 10+ is exceptional. Professional memory athletes can achieve 15+ digits.
Any strategies to improve?
Yes! Chunk digits into groups (like phone numbers), use rhythmic rehearsal, and practice regularly. Visualization and creating meaningful patterns also help significantly.
Why do I sometimes forget sequences I just saw?
This is normal! Working memory is limited and fragile. Distractions, anxiety, or trying too hard can interfere with encoding and recall.
How does this relate to intelligence?
Digit span is moderately correlated with fluid intelligence and academic performance, but it's just one component of cognitive ability. Training can improve your span regardless of baseline intelligence.
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