Chimp Test
Challenge yourself with the famous chimp memory test
Calculator
How to Play:
- Numbers will flash on the grid for 2 seconds
- After they disappear, click them in ascending order (1, 2, 3...)
- Start with 4 numbers, each level adds one more
- One wrong click and the game is over!
This test is inspired by studies showing chimpanzees have exceptional short-term memory!
The Chimp Test Origin
In a famous study at Kyoto University, a chimpanzee named Ayumu could remember the position of 9 numbers shown for just 0.21 seconds - faster than any human! This test challenges your working memory in a similar way.
How to Use
Test your working memory with the Chimp Test
Start the test
Click the "Start Test" button to begin with 4 numbers on an 8x8 grid
Memorize quickly
You have 2 seconds to memorize the positions of all numbers before they hide
Click in order
After the numbers disappear (except number 1), click the squares in ascending order: 1, 2, 3, etc.
Progress through levels
Each successful level adds one more number. One wrong click ends the game. Try to beat your best score!
Frequently Asked Questions
The Chimp Test is a working memory game inspired by studies at Kyoto University where chimpanzees demonstrated exceptional short-term memory. Numbers flash briefly on a grid, and you must click them in ascending order after they disappear. It tests your ability to quickly memorize and recall spatial positions.
Yes! A chimpanzee named Ayumu at Kyoto University could remember the position of 9 numbers shown for just 0.21 seconds, outperforming human participants. Young chimps especially excel at this type of rapid visual memory task, possibly because they rely more on photographic memory than humans do.
Practice is key! Try to take a mental "snapshot" of the entire grid rather than reading each number individually. Some tips: relax your focus to see the whole pattern, practice regularly, avoid subvocalization (saying numbers in your head), and stay well-rested as fatigue significantly impacts working memory.
Most people can handle 4-6 numbers reliably. Reaching level 7-8 is good, 9-10 is excellent, and anything above 10 is exceptional. The world record for humans is around 15-20 numbers, though this requires extensive practice. Remember, even professional memory athletes find this test challenging!