How long does the Corsi Block-Tapping Test take?
About 5 to 8 minutes, as listed in the test library.
Working Memory
Corsi Block-Tapping Test
Assess visuospatial span with an adaptive browser-native nine-block tapping task.
Useful for aging, TBI, sport, education, and cross-language studies that need nonverbal working-memory data.
Free to start: 10 free participants per account, then $0.99 per participant for academic research, or any yearly plan. Preview any test free after you sign up.
Working memory5-8 minUntimed
Sequence
Block 2Block 6Block 7
Span adaptsForward and reverse variants ready
Tap blocks in the same order
What this task measures
Measures visuospatial short-term and working memory by asking participants to reproduce sequences across a fixed nine-block layout.
Core constructs
- Visuospatial short-term memory
- Visuospatial working memory
- Sequential spatial recall
- Nonverbal memory span
Research fit
- Aging and memory research
- Traumatic brain injury studies
- Neurodevelopmental research
- Cross-language cognitive batteries
- Sport and education working-memory protocols
Paradigm overview
The Corsi Block-Tapping Test measures visuospatial span using a fixed array of nine irregularly positioned blocks. A sequence of blocks lights up one at a time, and the participant reproduces the sequence by clicking the blocks.
Forward Corsi span primarily measures visuospatial short-term memory. The optional backward phase adds a manipulation demand by requiring the sequence in reverse order, making it closer to a visuospatial working-memory endpoint.
Key scoring outputs
Forward Span
scoreLongest block sequence correctly recalled in presented order.
Higher is better
Backward Span
scoreLongest block sequence correctly recalled in reverse order. Null if backward phase is disabled.
Higher is better
Total Score
scoreForward span plus backward span when both phases are enabled.
Higher is better
Forward Accuracy
proportionProportion of forward Corsi trials reproduced correctly.
Higher is better
Backward Accuracy
proportionProportion of backward Corsi trials reproduced correctly.
Higher is better
Order Errors
countTrials where the entered block order did not match the expected sequence.
Lower is better
Running this test
Settings you can change
| Setting | Standard | Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Starting span length | 3 | 2 to 5 |
| Maximum span length | 9 | 6 to 12 |
| Include backward span | On | On or off |
Yearly plans can change settings within these limits. Free and pay-as-you-go studies use the standard settings.
Need a setting this test does not have?
Devices and languages
- Untimed test: runs on desktops, laptops, tablets and phones. Participant devices
- Task text: English and Italian.
- Available on: Every plan, including the free plan.
- Recruiting online? See the setup guides for Prolific, Sona Systems, CloudResearch Connect and Qualtrics.
Cite this test
Paradigm source: Corsi (1972); Milner (1971).
ConductCognition versions: task version 1.0.0, scoring version 1.0.0. Every export records the versions each session used, for a methods section.
Source papers
Kessels RPC, van Zandvoort MJE, Postma A, Kappelle LJ, de Haan EHF (2000). The Corsi Block-Tapping Task: standardization and normative data. Applied Neuropsychology, 7(4):252-258.
N 70Adults
Monaco M, Costa A, Caltagirone C, Carlesimo GA (2013). Forward and backward span for verbal and visuo-spatial data: standardization and normative data from an Italian adult population. Neurological Sciences, 34:749-754.
N 36220-99
Research FAQ
Common questions about this online cognitive test
What device does a participant need?
Untimed test: runs on desktops, laptops, tablets and phones. The browser must be Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari.
What scores does it produce?
Forward Span, Backward Span, Total Score, Forward Accuracy, Backward Accuracy and Order Errors. Each session is also marked valid, needs review or invalid, with the reason.
Which settings can a researcher change?
Starting span length (2 to 5), maximum span length (6 to 12) and include backward span (On or off). Settings can be changed on yearly plans; free and pay-as-you-go studies use the standard settings.
Which languages can participants use?
The test's own text is in English and Italian. Italian participant pages come with yearly plans.
Is this a clinical test?
No. ConductCognition is for research use only. It runs, scores and exports the test; clinical interpretation is outside the platform.
Every test: the full test list.
Run this test in your next study
Start free with 10 free participants on any test, then use participant credits or a yearly plan.
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