Stroop Test
Name the INK COLOR, not the word. 20 rounds.
FAQ
The Stroop effect is the delay in reaction time when the name of a color is printed in a different color ink. Your brain automatically reads the word, creating interference with naming the ink color.
It measures cognitive control, selective attention, and processing speed. The ability to suppress automatic word reading in favor of color naming reflects executive function capacity.
John Ridley Stroop published the test in 1935 in his doctoral dissertation. It has since become one of the most widely used tests in experimental and clinical psychology.
About this test
The Stroop test is a classic measure of cognitive control, first published in 1935. It demonstrates how automatic processes (reading) can interfere with controlled processes (color naming).
How It Works
Color words appear in different ink colors. You must identify the ink color, not the word. When the word "RED" appears in blue ink, the correct answer is blue, but your brain wants to say red.
Why It Is Important
The Stroop effect reveals how the brain handles conflicting information. Strong Stroop performance indicates good executive function, which is crucial for decision-making, multitasking, and self-regulation.
Tips
- Focus on the color, try to blur the word
- Develop a rhythm — do not overthink each item
- Practice improves performance by strengthening cognitive control