What is the capacity range for short-term memory in terms of information pieces?

Short-term memory is recognized for its capacity to hold a limited amount of information for a brief period. The widely cited research by George A. Miller, known as "The Magical Number Seven, Plus or Minus Two," suggests that the typical capacity of short-term memory is around 5 to 9 pieces of information. This range reflects the ability of most individuals to manage information chunks, which can encompass single items or groups of related data. For example, remembering a sequence of numbers or words can be facilitated by chunking—grouping individual pieces of information into larger, more manageable units.

This understanding is crucial because it highlights the limitations of cognitive processing in short-term memory, emphasizing the effectiveness of chunking strategies to optimize the storage and recall of information. Ultimately, recognizing this capacity assists in comprehending how memory functions in everyday tasks, such as learning, problem-solving, and communication.