Flanker Test

Test your ability to focus on the center target while ignoring surrounding distractions. Based on the classic Eriksen flanker task — a staple of attention research since 1974. How It Works: - A row of 5 arrows appears on screen - Only the CENTER arrow matters — ignore the outer 4 - Press ← if the center arrow points left, press → if it points right - Some trials are CONGRUENT (all arrows same direction) - Some trials are INCONGRUENT (flankers point the opposite way) Your Score: Average reaction time on correct trials. Faster correct responses = better score. Wrong clicks don't count toward your RT average, so accuracy is baked in — a user who spams clicks will score badly. The Science: Your brain automatically processes the flanking arrows, which interferes with your response to the center arrow on incongruent trials. This interference costs time — typically 60–100ms for adults. Smaller interference = better inhibitory control. Why It Matters: The Flanker effect is one of the most reliable markers of executive attention. It's used clinically to assess ADHD, frontal-lobe function, and selective attention.