What is an average digit span?

For forward recall, most adults hold around seven digits, give or take two. Backward span is usually one or two shorter because you have to reorder the digits as well as remember them. Reaching nine or more forward is a strong result.

How is this different from a number memory test?

A number memory test usually flashes the whole number at once for a second. This digit span test reveals the digits one at a time in sequence, which is the traditional span task and leans more on order memory. It also adds a backward mode.

Does digit span improve with practice?

You can raise it a little, mostly by using tricks like chunking digits into groups. The underlying capacity is fairly stable, but grouping and staying relaxed help you use what you have.

Why is backward harder?

Backward recall makes you hold the digits and rearrange them at the same time, which uses more working memory than simply playing them back in order. A shorter backward span than forward is completely normal.

Digit Span Test

Digits appear one at a time, then you type them back. This free digit span test starts at three digits and adds one each time you get a round right, so you find the longest string you can hold. Switch to backward mode to type them in reverse, which is harder. Most people manage around seven forward. Nothing is uploaded and there is no sign-up.

Measure your digit span, the number of digits you can hold in short-term memory and repeat back. Unlike a test that flashes the whole number at once, this one shows the digits one at a time, the way the classic memory-span task works. Recall them forward, or switch to backward mode and type them in reverse to stretch your working memory harder. It answers the common question of how many digits the average person can remember, and lets you push your own limit.

No sign-up, ever
100% free
Nothing uploaded
Works offline after first load
Scores stay on your device

Read the guide: What Is a Good Digit Span?

Best: —

Digit Span TestWatch the digits appear one at a time, then type them in the same order. Each correct round adds a digit.

How to use it

1
Watch the digits

They appear in the centre one at a time. Do not write them down, just hold them in your head.
2
Type them back

In forward mode, type them in the order shown. In backward mode, type them in reverse. Press Enter to submit.
3
Climb the span

Get it right and the next round adds a digit. One slip ends the run and shows the longest span you reached.

When it comes in handy

Test working memory

Digit span is a classic measure of how much you can hold and use in the moment.

Forward versus backward

Compare your forward and backward spans. The gap shows how well you juggle information, not just store it.

Track over time

Rest, focus and practice all move the number, so check it across different days.

Instant & 100% private — nothing is uploaded

Every game runs right here in your browser, and your best scores are kept on your own device. Nothing is sent to a server, so there is no sign-up and no account. Load the page once and it keeps working even if you go offline.

Frequently asked questions

What is an average digit span?: For forward recall, most adults hold around seven digits, give or take two. Backward span is usually one or two shorter because you have to reorder the digits as well as remember them. Reaching nine or more forward is a strong result.
How is this different from a number memory test?: A number memory test usually flashes the whole number at once for a second. This digit span test reveals the digits one at a time in sequence, which is the traditional span task and leans more on order memory. It also adds a backward mode.
Does digit span improve with practice?: You can raise it a little, mostly by using tricks like chunking digits into groups. The underlying capacity is fairly stable, but grouping and staying relaxed help you use what you have.
Why is backward harder?: Backward recall makes you hold the digits and rearrange them at the same time, which uses more working memory than simply playing them back in order. A shorter backward span than forward is completely normal.

Reaction Time TestClick the moment the screen turns green and see your reflexes in milliseconds.Aim TrainerHit 30 targets as fast as you can and get your time per target.Stroop TestName the ink colour, not the word — measure focus under interference.Sequence Memory TestRepeat the lit-tile pattern as it grows one step longer each round.Number Memory TestMemorise a number that grows by a digit each round, then type it back.Verbal Memory TestFlag each word as seen or new — keep going as the list grows.

More from the Hivly network

Free sister tools on our other sites.

Spin the WheelAdd options, spin, and let the wheel pick a winner.SudokuEasy to Expert puzzles with notes, hints and a timer.Webcam TestCheck your camera works, see its resolution and grab a snapshot.

How to use it

Watch the digits

Type them back

Climb the span