Is Photographic Memory a Myth? Take the Test and Find Out!

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of photographic memory, specifically examining a test designed to assess this ability. Participants share their experiences and scores from the test, reflecting on their memory capabilities and the nature of photographic memory itself.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants report low scores on the photographic memory test, with scores ranging from 0% to 70%, suggesting varying levels of confidence in their memory abilities.
  • Several participants express frustration with the test format, including issues like server errors and test restarts, which may affect their scores.
  • There are mentions of using specific memorization techniques, such as focusing on the largest blocks of white squares, which some participants believe may influence their performance.
  • One participant humorously claims to have a "pornographic memory," indicating a playful take on the concept of memory.
  • A participant suggests that photographic memory might be a myth, indicating a broader skepticism about the concept itself.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the existence of photographic memory, with some expressing doubt about its validity while others share personal experiences that suggest varying degrees of memory ability.

Contextual Notes

Participants' scores and experiences are influenced by individual differences in memory and the test's design, which may not accurately reflect true memory capabilities. Some participants also mention external factors, such as technical issues, that could affect their performance.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those curious about memory capabilities, psychological testing, or the debate surrounding the concept of photographic memory.

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GRRRRR, I had almost completed the test and selected the option to "zoom in" and it restarted the test! I'll try agin later after I'm not angry anymore. I don't believe that I have short term ediectic memory anyway.
 
I scored 10%. Meaning I only got the first and easiest one right. They suggest I may not have this ability.
 
I scored 0%. But I do have a pornographic memory.
 
I got 40% - and an error connecting to the server so I couldn't see which ones I got right. I suspect the first four, since I think I was using rapid memorisation techniques rather than any intuitive ability to just "see a difference".
 
I'm not very confident about my short term memory's ability to ... uh, what were we talking about?
 
10% on the first try, 70% on the 2nd. looking for changes to the biggest continuous block of white squares (& mostly ignoring the rest) seemed to work pretty well on the 2nd try. I don't know if that's cheating or what but those 10x10 squares were too much to take in in such a short time.
 
Last edited:
There is a bit of a learning curve to this. I only got 10% the first time 40% the second.
 
fourier jr said:
10% on the first try, 70% on the 2nd. looking for changes to the biggest continuous block of white squares (& mostly ignoring the rest) seemed to work pretty well on the 2nd try.

LOL I tried to keep up with changes in the two biggest blocks of white squares.
 
  • #10
I also got a server error, but then it said my score was 20%. I was surprised, I was expecting 0%.
 
  • #11
20% but I think it's because I typed the wrong number a few times. Could that test have been any more boring?
 
  • #12
Got to question 4 or so and quit. 0% and I couldn't even attempt to guess any of them. Literally had no idea.
 
  • #13
I've been wanting to take this test but forgot where I saw it.
 
  • #14
20% also
 
  • #15
I thought it was common knowledge that photographic memory is a myth?
 

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