Building Working Memory

Strategies and Brain Games to Track Details in Multi-Step Tasks

Working memory—the mental sticky note that stores information while we use it—is a core executive-function skill. It powers everything from following multi-step directions to solving math problems and keeping materials organized. Learners with ADHD often struggle in this area, but targeted practice can help. By teaching chunking, visualization, and recall games, educators, behavior analysts, and parents enable students to track first, next, last steps, remember key details, and finish classroom or home tasks with confidence.

Why build working memory?

• Stronger academic performance. Research shows working-memory training delivers measurable gains in reading comprehension and multi-step math accuracy—benefits that are especially valuable for students with ADHD.
• Better task initiation and completion. Techniques such as chunking and visual checklists cut down “Where do I start?” delays and reduce homework refusal.
• Enhanced problem-solving and self-regulation. Sharper recall skills free up mental bandwidth, allowing learners to plan, monitor, and adjust their work in real time—key components of executive functioning.