The digit span test is a test of attention using what?

• A. Test of attention using number repetition
• B. A test of memory for distant events
• C. A test of language comprehension
• D. A test of spatial orientation

Answer: (A)

Attention and short-term/working memory are evaluated through verbally repeating sequences of digits. In a digit span task, digits are spoken and you must repeat them in the same order, with the sequence length increasing as you succeed. This setup tests your ability to sustain attention to the incoming information and hold it in memory long enough to reproduce it. The forward version mainly reflects attention and immediate memory for digits, while the backward version adds a mental manipulation component, tapping working memory. It does not assess distant memory, language comprehension, or spatial orientation, which is why the task uses number repetition as its measure.