One sequence, three kinds of recall
Digit Span presents short sequences one digit at a time, then asks you to reproduce them. Forward recall emphasizes maintenance; backward and sequencing conditions add a requirement to transform what you held in mind.
The recall rule changes the cognitive demand
In every condition, you first need to attend to and retain the digits. Forward Digit Span asks for the same order. Backward Digit Span asks you to reverse it. Sequencing asks you to sort the digits from smallest to largest. The last two conditions therefore add manipulation and rule-following to short-term retention.
Digit span paradigms appear in cognitive research and professionally administered assessment batteries, but versions differ in presentation, stopping rules, scoring, setting, and norms. Results from different versions are not automatically interchangeable.
What happens during the task
- Practice the response. Watch a two-digit example, then enter it with the on-screen keypad or your keyboard.
- Complete forward recall. Enter each sequence in the same order it appeared.
- Complete backward recall. Enter each sequence in reverse order.
- Complete sequencing. Enter the digits in ascending numerical order.
Treat each score as a session record, not a label
The task records
- The longest correct span in each of the three conditions.
- Correct responses and attempted trials by condition.
- A combined total across forward, backward, and sequencing spans.
It does not establish
- A diagnosis or the cause of a memory concern.
- Your full working memory ability from one brief task.
- Clinical equivalence to a supervised, standardized assessment.
Primary and peer-reviewed sources
- Woods et al. (2011): Improving digit span assessment of short-term verbal memory, on administration and measurement choices.
- Piper et al. (2015): Reliability and validity of an open computerized Digit Span task, including mode-of-administration differences.
- Cowan et al. (2018): Theories of Working Memory, on distinctions among maintenance, manipulation, and attention.
- Schmiedek et al. (2014): Putting working memory tasks in psychometric context, on shared and task-specific variance.
Ready to try the three conditions?
Set aside about seven uninterrupted minutes. Read each recall rule carefully and complete the practice before the recorded task.