Itens Memória 7±2
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
About this calculator
The 7±2 Memory Items Calculator is a tool inspired by psychologist George Miller's 1956 research. It helps understand the limit of human short-term memory, which is approximately 7±2 items. This means people can generally remember 5 to 9 distinct items accurately. The calculator allows you to input different quantities of items and see how they fit within this limit.
The formula behind this calculator is straightforward: it checks if the number of items entered falls within the 5 to 9 range. If it does, it indicates the quantity is compatible with human short-term memory capacity. Otherwise, it suggests the information might be hard to remember without additional aids. This is crucial for interface designers, educators, and anyone who needs to present information clearly and effectively.
When to use this calculator? It's useful in various everyday situations, such as designing task lists, creating study plans, or even organizing shopping lists. By knowing the limit of items a person can remember, it's possible to organize information more efficiently, avoiding cognitive overload and facilitating recall.
A common caution when using this calculator is understanding that the 7±2 item limit refers to distinct units of information. For example, if you're creating a task list, each task counts as an item, regardless of its length. Additionally, memory capacity can vary from person to person and in different contexts, so it's always good to consider these factors when applying the rule.
Frequently asked questions
What does 7±2 items mean?
It means human short-term memory can handle approximately 7 items, plus or minus 2, resulting in a range of 5 to 9 items.
How does the calculator work?
Just enter the number of items you want to check, and the calculator will tell you if it's within the 5 to 9 item limit.
Can I use this rule for any type of information?
Yes, as long as the items are distinct. The rule applies to task lists, phone numbers, or any other type of information that needs to be remembered.
What if I have more than 9 items?
If you have more than 9 items, consider grouping them, using mnemonics, or other strategies to aid recall.
Is this rule valid for everyone?
While it's a general average, memory capacity can vary from person to person. Consider the specific needs of your audience.