Training
Dual N-Back
Train your working memory with the scientifically-backed dual n-back exercise.
Dual 1-Back
Match positions (A key) and letters (L key) from 1 step ago
Trial 1 of 20
How to Play
- Watch the grid and listen for letters
- Press A if the position matches 1 step ago
- Press L if the letter matches 1 step ago
- You can match both, one, or neither on each trial
What is Dual N-Back Training?
Dual N-Back is one of the few brain training exercises shown in research to improve fluid intelligence and working memory. You must track both a visual position and an audio letter, indicating when either matches what appeared N steps earlier. This trains the exact cognitive systems used when holding information in mind while reading.
Dual N-Back FAQ
- What is dual n-back?
- Dual n-back is a working memory task where you track two streams at once — typically a position and a sound — and indicate when the current item matches the one from n steps earlier. Difficulty scales by raising n.
- Does dual n-back increase IQ?
- This is genuinely disputed. Early studies reported fluid intelligence gains, but larger replications have found the improvement is mostly specific to the trained task. Be sceptical of strong claims in either direction; the reliable outcome is that you get better at n-back.
- What n-level should I train at?
- Start at 2-back. Move up when you are consistently above about 80% accuracy, and drop back down if accuracy collapses — training near the edge of your ability is the point.
- How long should a dual n-back session be?
- Around 15 to 20 minutes. It is cognitively demanding, and accuracy degrades noticeably once fatigue sets in, which makes longer sessions counterproductive.
- How does working memory relate to reading?
- Working memory is what holds the start of a sentence while you read the end of it. Limited working memory shows up as re-reading, which is one of the largest and least noticed drags on reading speed.
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