Head: reasoning and memory
Memory test: digit span and Corsi blocks
This memory test finds out how many digits and positions you can hold in order with two classic neuropsychology tasks: digit span and Corsi blocks. Your result is compared with people your age.
- Time
- 10 min
- Digits and Corsi
- 2 tasks
- Result
- Index and span
- No sign-up
- Free
Memory test
10 min Time2 tasks Digits and Corsi
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What your result looks like
Memory index
10496–112
Average
How the memory test works
- You see a sequence of digits or squares lighting up one at a time.
- You repeat it in the same order.
- The sequence grows, from 3 items, one at a time, while you get one of two tries right.
Your span is the longest sequence you repeat correctly. The free part is forward order; the full test adds backward order, which means working with the information, not just holding it.
Short-term memory and working memory
Repeating a sequence as it is measures short-term memory. Repeating it backwards is a working memory test: holding information in mind while you use it, as in mental arithmetic or following instructions.
Digits measure verbal memory and Corsi blocks visual-spatial memory, so you can see whether you remember what you hear or what you see better.
What is a normal memory span?
| Task | Typical young adult |
|---|---|
| Digits forward | 6 to 7 |
| Digits backward | 4 to 5 |
| Corsi forward | 5 to 6 |
| Corsi backward | 5 |
The index compares your span with people your age: 100 is average and most people score between 85 and 115. Working memory tends to peak in your twenties and decline slowly after, which is why age norms matter.
Memory and intelligence
Working memory is part of intelligence, so the full report of the IQ test includes it too. A good span helps, but fluid reasoning is measured separately.
Why take the test on Animi
- Open scienceQuestions and norms published by researchers. We cite the source of every test.
- Honest resultsEvery score comes with its margin of error. No online test gives an exact number.
- No sign-upNo email, no account. Your result is worked out in your browser.
- Compared with people like youWe place you against people of your age and, where there is data, your country.
Frequently asked questions
How many digits can the average person remember?
A young adult repeats about 6 to 7 digits forward and about 5 backward.
What are Corsi blocks?
A task where squares light up in an order you repeat. It measures visual-spatial memory and has been used in neuropsychology since the 1970s.
Can I practise?
Yes, but your first attempt reflects your memory best. Practice mostly improves the specific task.
Can this test detect memory problems?
No. It is for guidance only. If forgetfulness worries you, talk to a health professional.
Sources
- Monaco, M., Costa, A., Caltagirone, C. & Carlesimo, G. A. (2013). Forward and backward span for verbal and visuo-spatial data. Neurological Sciences, 34(5), 749–754.
- Baddeley, A. D. & Hitch, G. (1974). Working memory. Psychology of Learning and Motivation, 8, 47–89.
- Cowan, N. (2001). The magical number 4 in short-term memory. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 24(1), 87–114.