How many could you remember?

Is it easier when you say the numbers aloud?

Try saying the days of the week in between the digits when you repeat them back?

Most people find this very difficult and can only manage a few numbers.

Most people can remember between 5 and 9 digits so long as they keep repeating the numbers to themselves. This is the limit of your working memory, the part of your memory you use to remember things short-term.

A mobile phone number of ten or eleven digits is too long for your working memory. This is why it's very difficult to repeat the number in your head.

People use different methods to memorise new phone numbers. Do the numbers remind you of a historical date or might they form a rhythm when said aloud? Are any of the digits the same as your house number or someone's age? Do two numbers add up to make a third?

Another, far less efficient way to remember a phone number, is simply to repeat it over and over - and eventually it will enter your long-term memory.