Impulse Control Test
Can you stay focused—and stop yourself when it counts?
What is the Impulse Control Test?
The Impulse Control Test—also known as the Go/No-Go Test in cognitive science—is a simple task that measures your ability to pause before you act. It challenges you to quickly respond to certain cues (“Go”) while holding back when you’re not supposed to (“No-Go”). Sounds easy? Not when your brain is moving fast.
Why is this test important?
Impulse control is a key part of attention. It’s what helps you resist clicking away from a task, blurting something out, or acting on autopilot. Without it, distractions win. This test helps you see how well you can override automatic responses and stay in control—especially under pressure.
What does it measure?
This test measures your:
- Response inhibition: Your ability to stop yourself from acting when you shouldn’t
- Reaction time: How quickly you respond when it’s appropriate
- Accuracy: How often you respond correctly versus impulsively
These give you a picture of how sharp your attention is—and how strong your self-control is in the moment.
What do the results mean?
Strong results show that you’re able to stay focused, react quickly, and resist distractions. Struggling with false starts or late reactions might mean your impulse control needs strengthening—especially in high-stimulation environments.
What can I do with this information?
Knowing how well you control your impulses gives you insight into habits like multitasking, procrastination, or acting without thinking. With practice, you can train your brain to pause, refocus, and make better decisions—on the screen and in real life.