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Multitasking exercise · ~2 min a run · free

Dual Task Manager

Type codes and catch peripheral lights at the same time.

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Dividing attention between a data-entry task and a visual monitoring task at once is one of the hardest cognitive demands in pilot selection. In each 120-second round you type short alphanumeric codes shown in the centre of the screen while also watching eight peripheral indicator lights around the edge and tapping each one before its response window closes. Both tasks run simultaneously and both count toward your score.

About this test

What this test measures

This measures divided attention and multitasking workload capacity: typing short codes accurately while also catching peripheral indicator lights before their window closes, both running at once for two minutes. It mirrors the flight-deck reality of managing a focused task and a monitoring task together without dropping either.

How to improve your score

  • Keep your central gaze on the entry panel and let the lights catch your eye at the edge of your vision, the same way an instrument scan works.
  • Split your effort roughly evenly, since the combined score weights both tasks at 50 percent and neglecting either one caps your result.
  • Build accuracy at a steady pace first, then push your typing speed, rather than racing and stacking up mistyped codes.

Good to know

  • Use peripheral vision for the lights

    Keep your central gaze on the entry panel and let the lights catch your attention at the edge of your visual field. This is the same technique as instrument scan: foveal focus on a primary reference, peripheral awareness for deviations.
  • What a strong score looks like

    A combined score of 60 or above is a solid pass. Getting there typically means typing at least 15 entries per minute with high accuracy while hitting 70% or more of the lights. Start by building consistency at lower pace before pushing speed.

Frequently asked questions

Why do pilot aptitude tests include a dual-task component?

A flight deck requires simultaneous management of multiple information streams: radio, instruments, systems and traffic. Selection batteries test dual-task capacity to predict how well a candidate handles that workload before they have ever sat in a cockpit.

Is it better to focus on one task or both equally?

In our testing, trying to split your attention evenly works better than fixating on one task. A strong result needs both tasks to stay active, because the combined score weights them equally at 50% each.

Is this a specific published test?

No. It is an original SkyStudy exercise, not affiliated with any test publisher, that trains the same underlying cognitive skill as the dual-task and monitoring subtests found in pilot selection.

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