How do I play the direction change reaction test?

Compare the new arrow with the arrow shown just before it. Press Space, Enter, or the CHANGE button only when the direction changes. If it stays the same, do nothing until the timing bar ends.

How many rounds are in standard mode?

Standard mode has 20 rounds: 12 direction changes and 8 same-direction holds. Mistakes and missed changes still advance to the next round.

What does the timing bar mean?

The timing bar shows the response window for the new arrow. Respond before it empties if the arrow changed, or wait for it to empty if the arrow stayed the same.

Does the direction change test work on mobile?

Yes. Tap the large CHANGE button when the arrow reverses and leave it untouched when the arrow stays the same.

SPOT THE SWITCH · 20 ROUNDS

DIRECTION CHANGE REACTION TEST

Press only when the arrow changes direction. If it stays the same, hold until the timing bar ends.

ROUNDS 0 / 20

Complete 20 rounds: 12 changes and 8 holds. Mistakes count, but the test continues.

CORRECT0

CHANGE HITS0

CORRECT HOLDS0

ACCURACY—

AVG. CHANGE TIME—

READY?

CHANGE = PRESS · SAME = HOLD

Use Space or Enter on a keyboard, or tap the large button on a touchscreen.

Press only after the new arrow appears and only if it reversed. Pressing during the preview or on a repeated arrow is incorrect.

HOW TO PLAY

Compare each new arrow with the one before it

01
Memorize the direction of the preview arrow.
02
When the next arrow flashes, decide whether it reversed or stayed the same.
03
Press CHANGE before the timing bar empties only for a reversal. For the same direction, do nothing and let the bar finish.

COMPARE + CONTROL

What does this direction change test challenge?

Every round asks you to keep one arrow direction in short-term memory, compare it with a new signal, and respond only when the direction changes.

Because repeated arrows require no action, the game combines visual comparison, reaction speed, and response inhibition. It is a recreational game, not a medical assessment.

READ YOUR RESULT

Accuracy rewards both fast changes and patient holds

Accuracy counts correct presses on changed arrows and correct holds on repeated arrows. Average reaction time uses correct change presses only, so the full hold window does not inflate it.

Standard mode always completes 20 rounds. Endless mode gives you one life and shortens the response window from about 1.6 seconds toward 450 milliseconds.

QUESTIONS

Direction change reaction test FAQ

When should I press CHANGE?

Press only when the new arrow points in the opposite direction from the preview arrow. Use Space, Enter, click, or tap before the timing bar empties.

What should I do when the direction stays the same?

Do nothing. A same-direction round is correct only when the full response window ends without an input.

How is standard mode balanced?

The 20-round sequence contains 12 changed arrows and 8 same-direction arrows in a shuffled order. Errors and missed changes still advance.

How does endless mode work?

Endless mode continues while every decision is correct. One early press, false press, or missed change ends the run, and the timing window gradually shrinks to 450 milliseconds.

Can I play on a phone?

Yes. Tap the large CHANGE button when the arrow reverses. The interface fits small screens and does not require keyboard input.