Spatial Memory Assessment
Corsi Block Tapping Test
Measure your visuospatial working memory. Watch blocks light up on a board, then tap them back in order.
Start AssessmentHow It Works
Watch
Blocks light up one by one in a sequence.
Remember
Hold the order in your mind.
Tap
Tap them back in the same (or reverse) order.
You'll start with 3 practice rounds before the scored test. Sequences get longer until you can't remember them.
Tip: Use a larger screen if you can. Minimize distractions for the best results.
The Research Behind This Test
The Corsi block tapping paradigm was developed in 1972 by Philip Michael Corsi at McGill University as a spatial analogue to the classic digit span task. Instead of remembering numbers, you remember locations.
The forward version measures visuospatial short-term memory: your capacity to store and reproduce ordered spatial sequences. The backward version adds a manipulation component, tapping into visuospatial working memory.
From the Research
"This task is identical in design to the Hebb digits task, but the items are spatial not numerical."
— Corsi, P. M. (1972). Human memory and the medial temporal region of the brain. Doctoral dissertation, McGill University.
Forward vs Backward
Forward span reflects spatial storage capacity. Backward span also requires mental manipulation of the sequence, drawing on executive working memory resources. Research shows these engage partly separable cognitive systems.
This digital version follows the widely cited two-trial-per-length protocol from Kessels et al. (2000), adapted for browser-based delivery. We generate our own sequences rather than copying published stimulus lists.
- 9 blocks in a custom irregular layout
- ~1 item per second (800ms highlight + 200ms gap)
- 2 trials per sequence length, starting at length 2
- Stop when both trials at a length are incorrect
- Scores: Span, Correct Trials, Total Score (Span × Correct Trials)
From the Research
"Only a completely correctly repeated sequence was scored as correct; self-corrections were permitted here."
— Kessels, R. P. C. et al. (2000). The Corsi Block-Tapping Task: standardization and normative data. Applied Neuropsychology, 7(4), 252-258.
On Digital Adaptation
"Even when a traditional examiner-administered test is programmed for computer administration, it becomes a new and different test."
— Bauer, R. M. et al. (2012). Computerized Neuropsychological Assessment Devices. NAN Position Paper.
Two sequences of the same length can differ dramatically in difficulty depending on their spatial layout. Sequences with more path crossings, sharper angles, and longer distances are harder to remember.
Simple path
No crossings, gradual turns
Complex path
Crossing paths, sharp angles
Our sequence generator controls for path complexity so that sequence length, not geometry, is the main driver of difficulty.
From the Research
"Path configuration complexity affects spatial memory span on the eCorsi Task."
— Tapper, A. & Niechwiej-Szwedo, E. (2023). Path configuration complexity affects spatial memory span. Vision, 7(1), 24.
Visuospatial Memory in Context
The Corsi task has been used in neuropsychology since the 1970s, yet there has been "considerable inconsistency in the administration and scoring" across studies (Berch et al., 1998). This is why we document our exact protocol above.
| Aspect | Corsi Block Tapping | Cognitive Reflection Test |
|---|---|---|
| Measures | Visuospatial working memory | Analytical vs intuitive thinking |
| Format | Interactive spatial task | Open-ended word problems |
| Time | 6-10 minutes | 3-5 minutes |
| Scoring | Span (1-9) + total score | 0-3 correct answers |
On Cross-Study Variability
"There has been considerable inconsistency in the administration and scoring and physical properties of the test apparatus."
— Berch, D. B., Krikorian, R. & Huha, E. M. (1998). The Corsi block-tapping task: methodological and theoretical considerations. Brain and Cognition, 38(3), 317-338.
About This Assessment
This is a free, research-inspired digital adaptation of the Corsi block tapping paradigm. It is an educational self-assessment, not a clinical diagnostic tool.
Based on the spatial span paradigm from Corsi (1972), using the two-trial-per-length protocol described by Kessels et al. (2000). Sequences are algorithmically generated and are not copied from any published stimulus list.
Computerized versions differ from physical board tests (Claessen et al., 2015). Screen size, input method, and environmental distractions can influence performance. Scores should not be compared to published clinical norms.
This is not the Wechsler Spatial Span (WMS), CANTAB Spatial Span (SSP), or any other proprietary instrument. It does not provide a clinical evaluation, diagnosis, or measure of overall intelligence. If you have concerns about memory or cognition, consult a healthcare professional.