Task Switch Speed
Measures cognitive flexibility — how quickly your brain can reconfigure itself for a new task. Alternating rules require you to switch mental sets rapidly. The switching cost (delay vs. non-switch) is your key metric.
Coming soon.
01 /How to Play
- Two alternating rules appear — follow the rule shown on screen.
- Switch between rules as fast as possible when prompted.
- Your reaction time on switch trials vs. non-switch trials is compared.
- Your switching cost (the delay caused by switching) is your score.
- Lower switching cost = greater cognitive flexibility.
02 /The Science
Task-switching cost — the additional reaction time incurred when switching between tasks compared to repeating the same task — is a reliable measure of cognitive flexibility and executive control. Mediated by the prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, task switching requires active inhibition of the previous task set and retrieval of the new one. Switching costs decrease with practice and are larger in older adults, individuals with ADHD, and under cognitive load. The ability to switch rapidly between tasks predicts multitasking performance and professional adaptability.
03 /Pro Tips
- Read the rule cue before the stimulus appears — preparation reduces switching cost.
- Don't carry over the previous rule — fully reset between trials.
- Consistent rhythm helps — irregular pacing increases switching cost.
- Cognitive flexibility improves with dual-task practice and novel learning.
- Switching cost naturally increases with fatigue — test when alert.