Chimp test

Click the numbers in order after they disappear

Numbers Remembered

About Chimp Test

The Chimp Test is inspired by experiments that showed chimpanzees have remarkable numerical memory. This test challenges your working memory by requiring you to remember the positions of numbers that disappear after your first click.

How It Works

Numbers Appear: Several numbered squares appear on the grid
Click First Number: Click on number 1
Numbers Hide: After your first click, all remaining numbers disappear
Remember Positions: You must remember where each number was located
Click in Order: Click the remaining squares in numerical order
Level Up: Successfully complete a level to add more numbers

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Memory Tip: Try to visualize a pattern or path connecting the numbers. Create a mental snapshot of the entire grid before clicking the first number.

Score Interpretation

Genius Level

10+ numbers

Excellent

7-9 numbers

Good

5-6 numbers

Average

4 numbers

The Science Behind the Test

This test is based on research by Tetsuro Matsuzawa at Kyoto University, who discovered that young chimpanzees can outperform humans at this specific memory task. The test demonstrates the incredible power of photographic or eidetic memory.

5-9

Numbers most humans can remember

Benefits of This Test

🧠 Working Memory: Strengthens short-term visual memory capacity
📸 Photographic Memory: Develops snapshot memory skills
🎯 Focus: Improves concentration and attention to detail
⚡ Processing Speed: Enhances rapid information processing
🧩 Spatial Memory: Develops ability to remember positions

How to Improve

Take a Mental Snapshot: Before clicking, pause and visualize the whole grid
Find Patterns: Look for number arrangements (diagonal, cluster, etc.)
Use Landmarks: Relate number positions to grid edges or corners
Practice Regularly: Daily practice can significantly improve scores
Stay Calm: Rushing leads to mistakes; take your time to memorize
Minimize Distractions: Focus completely on the grid

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can humans beat chimpanzees at this test?

Research shows that young chimpanzees often outperform adult humans at this specific task. However, with practice, some humans can achieve scores of 10+ numbers, rivaling chimp performance.

❓ Why do the numbers disappear?

The disappearing numbers test your photographic memory ability to create a mental snapshot. This is what makes the test challenging and measures true visual working memory rather than just sequential clicking.

❓ What's a good score?

Most people score between 4-6 numbers. Scores of 7-9 are excellent, and 10+ is exceptional. Don't be discouraged if you start at 4 – this is the average baseline.

❓ Can I improve my score?

Yes! With regular practice, most people can improve by 2-3 numbers. The key is developing better visual snapshot techniques and pattern recognition skills.

❓ How long should I look at the numbers?

Take 2-3 seconds to study the grid before clicking. Try to capture a mental image of all number positions simultaneously rather than looking at them one by one.

❓ Is this related to IQ?

This test specifically measures visual working memory, which is one component of cognitive ability. High scores indicate strong spatial and short-term memory but don't directly correlate with overall IQ.

❓ Why is it called the Chimp Test?

It's named after the famous research by Tetsuro Matsuzawa, who tested chimpanzees at Kyoto University and found they could remember 9+ numbers almost instantly, often outperforming humans.

❓ Does age affect performance?

Interestingly, younger individuals (especially children) often perform better at this test, similar to how young chimps outperform adult chimps. Visual working memory tends to peak in youth.

❓ Can I save my results?

Yes! Sign in with your Google account to save your scores and track your improvement over time on your dashboard.

❓ What's the world record?

While there's no official record, some individuals have achieved scores of 15+ numbers. The chimp Ayumu, who inspired this test, has demonstrated ability to remember 9 numbers in less than a second.