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Trail Making Test
Part A: tap the circles 1, 2, 3… in order. Part B: alternate between numbers and letters, 1-A-2-B-3-C… We time both parts and show the difference between them.
About the Trail Making Test
The Trail Making Test is a classic measure of attention, visual search and task switching. Part A is pure scanning and speed. Part B adds set-shifting: you must alternate between numbers and letters, which costs extra time.
The gap between Part B and Part A is the switching cost. A smaller difference means your brain moves between rules more efficiently. A wrong circle flashes red and does not advance you, so accuracy still matters.
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About
The Trail Making Test measures visual attention, processing speed, and mental flexibility by asking you to connect a sequence of targets as quickly and accurately as possible. Part A presents numbered circles from 1 to 25 that you click in ascending order. Part B alternates between numbers and letters (1-A-2-B-3-C, etc.), requiring you to switch between two sequences while maintaining the correct order. The test captures how efficiently your brain shifts between tasks and manages competing demands.
On this web version, you use a mouse or touchscreen to tap each circle in sequence. The timer starts automatically when you click the first target and stops when the final circle is selected. Errors such as clicking out of order are highlighted immediately, and you must correct them before continuing. Both completion time and error count are recorded for each part, providing a clear picture of baseline speed and the additional cost of task switching.
How your result is scored
Your result shows two primary metrics: the time in seconds to complete Part A and the time to complete Part B. A switching cost is calculated by subtracting Part A time from Part B time, reflecting the extra cognitive effort needed to alternate between number and letter sequences. Error counts for each part are also displayed, indicating accuracy under speed pressure.
Faster times generally suggest stronger visual scanning, motor speed, and executive control, while a large switching cost may indicate difficulty with task shifting. Because this is a brief screening tool, results should be viewed as a snapshot of current performance rather than a definitive measure of cognitive ability. If you have concerns about attention, processing speed, or executive function, consider discussing the results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Tips to improve
- Scan the entire layout briefly before starting to locate the next few targets.
- Keep your hand relaxed and use smooth, deliberate movements to avoid misclicks.
- Practice Part A a few times to build motor confidence before attempting Part B.
- If you lose your place, pause for a second rather than guessing randomly.
- Take the test when you are well-rested and free from distractions.
Related
Frequently asked questions
- What does the Trail Making Test actually measure?
- It measures visual search speed, sequencing ability, and the mental flexibility required to switch between two ordered sets.
- Is this version the same as the clinical paper-and-pencil test?
- It follows the same structure and scoring logic but uses a digital interface; normative data from paper versions may not apply directly.
- Can I use my score to diagnose ADHD, dementia, or brain injury?
- No, this is a screening aid only and cannot provide a medical diagnosis; consult a healthcare professional for clinical evaluation.
- Why is my Part B time so much longer than Part A?
- Part B adds the demand of alternating between numbers and letters, which naturally increases cognitive load and completion time.