Selective Attention Test

What is the Selective Attention Test?

The Selective Attention Test—also known as the Flanker Test in cognitive science—is a tool designed to measure how well you can focus on relevant information while ignoring distractions. In this test, you’ll see a series of arrows. Your job is to respond only to the direction of the center arrow, even though the ones on either side (the “flankers”) might be pointing in different directions.

Why is this test used?

Researchers and psychologists use this test to assess your ability to filter out conflicting information—a key skill for staying focused in real-world environments. Whether it’s tuning out a noisy room to read an email, or staying locked in on a task while your phone buzzes, selective attention is what helps you keep your mental spotlight where it matters.

What does it measure?

This test looks at two main things:

• Your response time: How quickly you react when the arrows appear.
• Your accuracy: How often you respond correctly, even with distractions present.

Together, these offer a snapshot of your selective attention capacity—how sharp and distraction-resistant your focus is.

What does this tell me about my attention?

Your results give insight into how easily you’re pulled off track. A slower or less accurate performance may mean your brain is taking longer to filter out distractions, which can lead to mental fatigue and task-switching in daily life.

What can I do with this information?

Once you know where your attention struggles, you can train it. Repeating this test over time or pairing it with attention-building techniques—like mindfulness, deep work routines, or distraction-limiting tools—can improve your selective focus and boost your productivity.