The N-back game is a cognitive training exercise designed to improve working memory, concentration, and fluid intelligence. It was first introduced by Wayne Kirchner in 1958 and has since become a popular tool for cognitive enhancement.

Benefits of N-back Training:

• Improves working memory capacity
• Enhances concentration and focus
• Boosts short-term memory retention
• May improve fluid intelligence
• Helps with attention management

How to Play: Position Matching

In this example of a 2-back game, you need to identify when the current position matches the position from 2 trials back:

In this example, you should press the "Position Match" button (or 'S' key) during Trials 4 and 5, because the positions match those from 2 trials back.

How to Play: Sound Matching

Similarly, you need to identify when the current number matches the number from N trials back:

In this 2-back example, you should press the "Sound Match" button (or 'L' key) during Trials 3 and 5, because the numbers match those from 2 trials back.

Dual N-back

The game becomes more challenging when you need to track both position and sound simultaneously. This is called "Dual N-back" and it provides the most cognitive benefits:

• You'll see a position highlight AND hear a number in each trial
• You need to independently track both sequences
• Press 'S' when the position matches the position from N trials back
• Press 'L' when the sound matches the sound from N trials back
• Sometimes both will match, sometimes only one, sometimes neither

As you improve, try increasing the N-back level for a greater challenge!