Which of the following is a subset of working memory on IQ tests?

• A. Coding
• B. Symbol Search
• C. Letter and Number Sequencing
• D. Cancellation

Answer: (C)

Working memory involves holding information in mind while you simultaneously manipulate it to complete a task. The option that asks you to reorder mixed letters and numbers is tapping that ability directly: you must retain the items in memory and organize them into a specified sequence, which requires both storage and mental operation. That combination is the essence of a working-memory task, so it best fits as a subset of working memory on IQ tests.

The other tasks lean more toward processing speed or focused attention. Coding and Symbol Search mainly measure how quickly and accurately you can process symbolic information, while a cancellation task centers on scanning and attention. They don’t require the same explicit holding and rearranging of information in working memory, which is why they’re not the correct choice.