How to Train Your Working Memory: 5 Everyday Methods
2026-05-09
Working memory is the ability to temporarily hold and manipulate information, and it comes into play across a wide range of situations such as calculation, reading comprehension, and conversation.
1. Chunking
Grouping numbers or pieces of information into meaningful clusters increases the amount you can hold. It works on the same principle as breaking up a phone number with hyphens.
2. The n-back task
In this task, you judge whether a stimulus matches the one presented n items earlier. It is a classic form of training for building working memory capacity.
3-5. Mental arithmetic, dual tasking, and sleep
Making mental arithmetic a daily habit, performing two tasks at the same time, and getting enough sleep all help maintain working memory. Measure your current level with the test.
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Editorial note & disclaimer
BrainRank Editorial Team
This article was written and edited by the BrainRank Editorial Team with reference to academic literature on psychometrics, including CHC theory and Item Response Theory (IRT). Statistics and percentages are calculated from a normal distribution model with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15.
The tests on this site provide estimates for entertainment and self-understanding purposes only. They are not medical or clinical assessments, nor official psychological (intelligence) tests.