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The N-Back Task
How Good is Your Brain's Update Function?

The N-Back Task measures cognitive updating and monitoring—a specific component of working memory. You'll see a sequence of letters, and you must respond when the current letter matches the one from N positions back.

How It Works:

  • Letters will appear one at a time (2.5 seconds each)
  • Press SPACEBAR when the current letter matches the one from N positions back
  • Do NOT press if it doesn't match
  • You must continuously update your mental list

2-Back Example:

In 2-back, you respond when the current letter matches the letter from 2 positions ago:

K
Position 1
→
P
Position 2
→
K
Position 3
MATCH!

Press SPACEBAR at position 3 because K matches position 1 (2 back)

⚠️ Watch Out for Lures!

The task includes lure trials that match positions that are close but not exactly N-back (like 1-back or 3-back in a 2-back task). These create a sense of familiarity and test your ability to precisely track positions. Resist the urge to respond to these!

Scientific Background: Based on the classic 1958 Kirchner N-Back paradigm. Your performance will be measured using d' (d-prime), a sensitivity index that shows how well you can discriminate true matches from lures. This is a more accurate measure than simple accuracy or speed.