For decades, researchers believed the capacity for working memory to be 7+/ - 2 chunks.

• A. Unlimited chunks
• B. 3-4 chunks
• C. One chunk per item
• D. 7+/ - 2 chunks

Answer: (D)

The capacity of working memory is described in terms of chunks—meaningful groups of information. By grouping related items into a single chunk, you can hold more information in mind than you could if you treated each item separately. The classic finding attributed to Miller is that people can hold about seven chunks, plus or minus two, at once. In practical terms, that means most people can maintain roughly 5 to 9 chunks in working memory, though the exact number varies with task and how you organize the information. This is why the statement that the capacity is seven plus or minus two chunks is the historically taught estimate. Options proposing unlimited chunks, only 3–4 chunks, or one chunk per item don’t fit with the idea of a finite, chunk-based limit and the usefulness of grouping. So the traditional view that memory capacity centers around about seven chunks is the best fit.