Attention & Focus
Continuous Performance
Letters appear one after another. Tap for every letter except X. The X is the trap. The score is accuracy across the whole stream: correct taps plus correct holds, minus extras and misses.
Letters stream by. Tap every letter except X. Hold on X. The stream does not wait.
Pick a length
Short is a quick check. Long is the full run. Your best for each is stored on this device.
What this measures
The continuous performance task (CPT) measures sustained attention and response inhibition over a boring stream. That boredom is the point. Early seconds look easy. Later seconds reveal drift, especially if your mind leaves the page. Commission errors on X resemble the Go/No-Go red tap. Omissions on ordinary letters show a lapse. Research CPT versions last many minutes in clinic. This browser version is shorter, but Long still runs long enough that a mid-run fade shows up in the percent.
Where this shows up in real life
Watching a dull stream for the one item you must not treat like the others is security-desk and proofreading work. Late misses are the usual fatigue signature.
Score guide
| Rating | Score |
|---|---|
| Exceptional | 95%+ |
| Excellent | 90-94% |
| Above average | 86-89% |
| Average | 76-85% |
| Below average | under 76% |
How to improve
- Keep your eyes on the letter box. Looking at the timer costs a trial.
- Breathe on a rhythm. Holding your breath makes late lapses worse.
- If you tap an X, do not freeze. The next letter is already coming.
- Close notifications. One banner can wipe five trials.
Frequently asked questions
How is this different from Go/No-Go?
Go/No-Go uses a colour rule on a short, punchy cadence. CPT uses a letter rule on a longer, flatter stream. CPT is the better boredom test. Go/No-Go is the better snap-inhibition test.
What is a good CPT score?
Around 84% is typical on this timing. Mid-90s means you held the rule and the pace. Below 76% usually means either many X taps or a stretch of missed letters.
Can I train this?
Yes, as a vigilance workout. Gains show up as fewer late misses. They do not replace sleep or a clinical assessment.