Why are phone numbers 7 digits?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the reason behind the standardization of phone numbers to 7 digits, addressing the historical and technical reasons for this particular length.
Answer
Research found most people can store up to seven pieces of information in their working memory.
The final answer is that phone numbers are 7 digits because research found that most people can store up to seven pieces of information in their working memory.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that phone numbers are 7 digits because research found that most people can store up to seven pieces of information in their working memory.
More Information
The decision to use 7-digit phone numbers was influenced by psychological research indicating that the average number of items most people can comfortably store in their short-term memory is around seven.
Sources
- Why number 7 ± 2 is a magic number in your brain - debatrix.com
- ELI5: Why are phone numbers 7 digits long? - reddit.com
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