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Attention exercise · ~60 sec a run · free

Rule Classification

Learn a colour-and-shape rule, then apply it to a fast stream of symbols.

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A short rule defines which coloured shapes belong, for example a red triangle or a blue square. A rapid stream of single symbols then appears and you accept or reject each one against the rule, scoring as many correct calls as you can in the time limit. Each session generates a new rule, so the exercise trains flexible rule-following under time pressure rather than a memorised reflex.

About this test

What this test measures

Rule classification measures rule-based selective attention and processing speed: holding a defined colour-and-shape criterion in working memory and applying it rapidly and consistently to a continuous stream. It maps onto filtering relevant calls and alerts against a known set of conditions.

How to improve your score

  • Compress the rule into a short internal phrase such as red and pointy or blue and square, and apply that rather than re-reading the rule text.
  • Check the more common accept clause first to resolve most items in one comparison.
  • Because errors subtract, ease off speed slightly when your error rate climbs; disciplined accuracy raises net correct.

Good to know

  • Technique: turn the rule into a quick yes test

    Do not re-read the full rule on every symbol. Convert it once into a fast internal check, for example 'red and pointy, or blue and square, otherwise no'. Applying a compact internal phrase is much quicker than scanning the rule text under time pressure. If the rule has two clauses, check the more common one first.

  • Built for one-handed touch

    The Accept and Reject targets are large and sit side by side at the bottom, so you can run the whole task with one thumb, the way these speeded classification tests are usually taken on a tablet. Keyboard still works (f or right arrow to accept, j or left arrow to reject) if you prefer.

  • Benchmark and the rule flip

    Because errors subtract, net correct rewards disciplined accuracy, not frantic clicking. A strong session keeps errors under about 10 percent at a steady pace. In Endurance mode expect a dip right after the rule changes: that recovery, dropping the old rule fast, is exactly what the mode trains, so watch the before-and-after split on your results.

Frequently asked questions

What does Rule Classification train?

It trains rule-based selective attention: holding a defined criterion in working memory and applying it rapidly and consistently to incoming information. In the cockpit this maps onto filtering relevant calls, alerts, and readings against a known set of conditions while ignoring the rest.

Standard or Endurance mode?

Standard is one 60-second run at a single rule. Endurance runs for three minutes and flips the accept rule once at the midpoint, with a brief on-screen cue. The flip mirrors the mid-test rule change some real concentration tests use: the hard part is dropping an over-learned rule and picking up the new one cleanly. The results screen splits your accuracy before and after the change.

Why is there no difficulty selector?

Rule Classification is a calibrated speed task, so instead of an easy or hard slider it offers a Standard or Endurance mode choice. The pace stays constant; Endurance adds duration and the mid-run rule flip. The rule itself varies each session to keep the task fresh.

Is this a named selection test?

No. Rule Classification is an original SkyStudy exercise, not affiliated with or derived from any test publisher. It trains the same rule-application and selective-attention skill found in pilot-selection batteries, using independently generated rules and symbol streams.

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