Flanker Test
Which way does the CENTER arrow point?
FAQ
The flanker test measures selective attention by presenting a central target surrounded by distracting stimuli (flankers). You must respond to the center arrow while ignoring the flanking arrows.
The congruency effect is the difference in reaction time between congruent trials (flankers match the target) and incongruent trials (flankers point opposite). Larger differences indicate weaker attentional filtering.
Low congruency effects (small difference between congruent and incongruent trials) indicate strong selective attention. Fast overall reaction times with high accuracy show good processing speed and attention.
About this test
The Eriksen flanker test is a classic measure of selective attention and cognitive control. It tests your ability to focus on relevant information while ignoring distracting stimuli.
How It Works
A row of arrows appears. You must identify the direction of the center arrow, ignoring the flanking arrows that may point the same way (congruent) or the opposite way (incongruent).
Research Background
Developed by Charles Eriksen in 1974, the flanker task has been used in thousands of studies on attention, cognitive development, and clinical assessment. It reliably measures selective attention ability.
Tips
- Focus your gaze on the center position
- Try to avoid looking at the flanking arrows
- Develop a consistent response strategy