The difference between short-term memory and working memory

The problem is, no one really knows. It's a constant debate, and the terms are often used interchangeably.

Several professionals say, the short-term memory is you ability to hold information in your mind for a short amount of time. Working memory is your ability to hold it AND manipulate it some way. For example, the difference between recalling a phone number and doing maths in your head.

The average digit span is usually quoted to be 7 digits, it is quoted in reference to short-term memory and working memory. Usually you will get 2 more digits on the forward digit span then the backwards digit span. The research and IQ tests use a range of tests to come up with your working memory span, which involves both forward and back tests. Your backward digit span is likely to be more meaningful compared to the average score.

Interpreting the results

3 digits on the working memory test is likely the lowest score anyone will get, this is extremely poor. Your forward span will be probably then be 4 or 5.

4 digits with a 5 or 6 forward span, is also pretty bad and is likely that you are having problems.

7 digits backwards and 9 digits forwards should be what most of you get.

It may seems like 1 digit is not much difference but if you consider there is only 3 digits between a severely poor working memory and average working memory, each increment is quite meaningful. Also bare in mind that you results will be effected by your concentration. A low digit span, is either a low capacity OR low attention... If you truly do have a bad short-term memory, you'll be able to see "symptoms" in your everyday life some of which may be:-

  • Dropping things you forgot you were holding.
  • Forgetting what you were about to say, regularly.
  • Burning food that you forgot you were making.
  • Knocking over or into things you forgot were there, like drinks and erm, walls.
  • Forgetting what you were doing.
  • Getting confused when too many things are happening at once.
  • Not being able to do as much maths in your head as other people.
  • Difficulty in remembering instructions.
  • Forgetting the beginning of the sentence before you get to the end, so you don't know what you read.
  • Difficulty memorizing, facts, spellings and dates
  • Poor sense of time
  • Missing appointments
  • Taking longer to read or write then others
  • inability to multitask

Working memory really can effect a lot of areas of your life and if your have a poor working memory, it can be a real strain. HOWEVER, if you do have problems, chances are, you have some amazing talent in another area, particularity common are creative or technical talents.

See the links page for more information on working memory.