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Decision Speed Test

How fast can you decide? Classify 20 numbers as ≥50 or <50 against a 2-second timeout. Measures raw information processing speed.

Decision Speed

Is the number greater or less than 50? Answer as quickly as possible.

Trials
Difficulty
Sound Effects
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How This Test Works

1

What It Measures

Measures raw information processing speed. Numbers appear one at a time and you must classify each as ≥50 or <50 as fast as possible. Unlike simple reaction tests, this requires a cognitive classification step.

2

How Scoring Works

Score is the average response time for correct classifications across 20 trials. A 2-second timeout prevents guessing. Faster response times with high accuracy indicate efficient neural processing.

What Affects Your Results

Your processing speed, attention and arousal level, practice effects (familiarity with the threshold builds faster mental shortcuts), and display refresh rate all affect your decision speed.

Want to understand the science? Read our full guide on Processing Speed Science .

What Affects Your Decision Speed

  • Processing speed — how quickly your brain evaluates a stimulus and commits to a classification
  • Attention and arousal — optimal alertness improves classification accuracy under time pressure
  • Practice effects — repeated exposure to the ≥50/<50 threshold builds faster mental shortcuts
  • Monitor refresh rate — higher Hz displays reduce the gap between stimulus onset and your perception of it

Explore All Assessments

Explore all 31 cognitive assessments across six domains. Each test runs locally in your browser with sub-millisecond precision.

Reaction & Reflexes

Raw speed & sensory pathways

Memory

Active working capacity & retention

Reasoning

Fluid logic & non-verbal matrices

Focus & Attention

Selective attention & executive suppression

Motor Performance

Spatial mouse control & clicking stamina

Self-Tracking Notice: For self-tracking and educational purposes only. Not a clinical or diagnostic evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a decision speed test?

The decision speed test measures the time it takes to analyze visual rules and sort items into target zones.

What does decision speed measure?

It measures processing speed, visual categorization efficiency, and decision thresholds under time pressure.

What is the average decision speed score?

Average item sorting time ranges from 500ms to 700ms, depending on target complexity.

Is decision speed diagnostic for ADHD or dementia?

No. This is a self-tracking cognitive game and is not a clinical diagnosis for attention or memory conditions.

How can I train decision speed?

Minimize target search time by looking at the sorting color or rule card before the item appears in the sorting field.

How does cognitive fatigue affect decision speed?

Fatigue slows sensory processing, making it take longer for the brain to resolve rule matches and initiate motor plans.

Why do incorrect choices carry time penalties?

Penalties prevent users from guessing randomly, enforcing rule accuracy over simple motor speed.

Can I play the decision speed test on mobile?

Yes, the test is responsive and supports swipe gestures, though keyboard shortcuts on desktop provide the fastest input speeds.