Short-term memory (STM) is time limited and has a capacity limited to what?

Short-term memory (STM) is indeed characterized by a limited capacity, which is commonly described as being able to hold approximately seven bits or chunks of information at one time. This concept comes from the work of psychologist George A. Miller, who proposed the "Magical Number Seven, Plus or Minus Two." This theory suggests that the average number of objects an individual can hold in their working memory is about seven, but this can vary between five and nine chunks.

Chunks refer to the grouping of information into a larger, more manageable unit, allowing individuals to recall complex information more easily. For example, a phone number can be remembered as a series of digits (like 5551234), but when chunked into groups (like 555-1234), it becomes easier to remember.

The other options do not accurately capture the established understanding of the capacity of short-term memory. While nine chunks may seem plausible, it exceeds Miller's original findings. The idea of recording speed impacting chunk capacity does not align with how capacity in STM is generally understood, and the notion that only three comprehensive ideas can be held is overly restrictive and does not reflect the typical findings in cognitive psychology. Thus, the assertion that short-term memory's capacity is around seven bits