For Digit Span, when should the forward section be discontinued?

In the Digit Span subtest of the WISC-V, the forward section should be discontinued after the individual scores zero on both trials of a given span length. This criterion ensures that the assessment is measuring the child's ability to recall and sequence digits accurately. When an individual fails to repeat the digits correctly on both trials, it indicates a potential ceiling effect for their current level of performance in sequential auditory memory tasks.

Discontinuing the forward section after zero on both trials allows practitioners to focus on different aspects of cognitive functioning or to assess other areas of intelligence without unnecessarily prolonging the administration of the test, especially when the child is not demonstrating the expected level of capability.