Welcome to the Chimp Test, a challenging cognitive game designed to measure your short-term visual memory, often referred to as working memory. This test gained prominence through comparative psychology studies, notably highlighting the remarkable photographic memory capabilities of young chimpanzees, who could often outperform adult humans in specific tasks.

Are you ready to see how your memory stacks up?

What is the Purpose of the Chimp Test?

Assessing Working Memory

The primary goal is to evaluate your visuospatial working memory – the ability to temporarily hold and manipulate visual and spatial information. This skill is fundamental for everyday tasks like navigation, problem-solving, and learning complex patterns.

Human vs. Primate Cognition

The test provides a tangible comparison point between human and chimpanzee cognitive abilities, specifically in the domain of rapid information encoding and recall. Studies, like those by Professor Tetsuro Matsuzawa, revealed young chimps' surprising speed and accuracy.

Cognitive Training

Engaging with the Chimp Test isn't just a comparison; it's a workout for your brain! Regularly playing can help sharpen memory recall, enhance focus, and improve mental agility.

How Does the Chimp Test Work?

The Task

You will be presented with a grid containing numbers at random positions. Your first task is to memorize the locations of these numbers.

The Recall Phase

After a brief moment, the numbers will be hidden (usually replaced by squares). You must then click or tap the squares in ascending numerical order (1, 2, 3, ...).

Increasing Challenge

Increasing the number of items to memorize.
Potentially expanding the grid size.
Sometimes, reducing the time you have to memorize (though the core test focuses on capacity).

The Speed Element

While accuracy is key, the original research highlighted the incredible *speed* at which chimps could perform this task, seemingly capturing the number layout almost instantly – a feat often described as akin to photographic memory.

Why Take the Chimp Test?

Engaging & Educational

It's a fun way to challenge yourself while learning about cognitive science and the fascinating world of primate intelligence.

Sharpen Mental Skills

Beyond memory, the test engages attention, concentration, and sequential processing.

Insights into Cognition

Experiencing the test provides personal insight into the limits and capabilities of human working memory compared to our closest relatives, prompting reflection on cognitive evolution.

Accessible Brain Training

Available online, it's an easy and enjoyable way to incorporate cognitive exercise into your routine.

Track Your Progress

Use the statistics section to monitor your improvement over time as you practice.

Ready to Challenge Your Brain?

Test your limits, see how you measure up, and have some fun along the way. Try the Chimp Test now!

Try the Chimp Test Online (Link points to the game itself)

Chimp Test 🐵