Memory · Standard
Sequence Memory Test
Watch the pattern, then repeat it. One step longer each round.
Watch the pattern, then repeat it. One extra step every round.
What this measures
Squares light up in a sequence and you repeat it. Each round adds one more step, and the test ends the first time you get it wrong. Your score is the longest sequence you reproduced correctly.
This measures visuospatial working memory — how much you can hold in mind and replay in order. Most people stop between 8 and 10 steps, which fits the classic finding that short-term memory holds around seven items give or take two.
Chunking is the technique that beats the limit. Rather than remembering nine separate positions, people who score well group them into shapes or paths: three in the top row, then a diagonal. That converts nine items into three, which is comfortably inside anyone’s capacity.
Unlike the reflex tests on this site, this one is barely affected by your hardware. There is no timing pressure, so a slow screen or a wireless mouse costs you nothing.
What is a good sequence memory score
| Band | Score | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Top 1% | ≥ 20 steps | 99th |
| Top 5% | ≥ 16 steps | 95th |
| Top 15% | ≥ 13 steps | 85th |
| Top 30% | ≥ 11 steps | 70th |
| Median | ≥ 9 steps | 50th |
| Bottom 25% | ≥ 7 steps | 25th |
| Bottom 10% | ≥ 5 steps | 10th |
Bands reflect the level distributions published across the sequence-memory format, where most players stop between 8 and 10 steps.
Full sequence memory statistics, by age and device →
Questions
What is a good sequence memory score?
Nine steps is about average. Eleven puts you in the top 30%, thirteen in the top 15%, and sixteen or more in the top 5%.
How can I remember longer sequences?
Chunk them. Instead of nine separate positions, group them into shapes or paths — a row, then a diagonal — which turns nine items into three and fits inside normal working memory.
Is this the same as the Simon game?
The format is the same idea: watch a growing pattern and repeat it. This version uses a grid rather than four coloured buttons and does not use sound.
Does my computer affect this score?
Almost not at all. There is no timing component, so refresh rate and input latency do not matter here the way they do on the reflex tests.
Try next
Results are stored in your browser only. Read how we measure if you want the details of the timing, or go back to the standard sequence memory.