Digit Size in Short-Term Memory

Abstract

In the course of an experiment requiring the recall of 7-digit sequences it was noted that errors appeared more likely in lists composed of the larger digits. Sub-sequent analysis confirmed that, with immediate recall, there was a significant association between error frequency and mean digit size. When recall was delayed by an unfilled interval of 6 sec., the effect was abolished. However, interfering with rehearsal by interpolating a task of motor memory may tend to reinstate the effect.