How the chimp test works
A set of numbers appears scattered across the grid. The moment you click 1, the rest hide behind blank tiles, and you have to click the remaining numbers in order from memory: 2, 3, 4, and so on. Clear them all and the next round adds one more number. Click out of order and you take a strike — three strikes and the game ends. Your score is the highest count of numbers you clear.
The test is named after research showing that chimpanzees can beat humans at exactly this kind of quick spatial recall, so a high score puts you in genuinely impressive company.
What is a good chimp test score?
- Under 6 — a casual attempt.
- 8 to 10 — right around average.
- 12 to 14 — a strong working memory.
- 16+ — excellent; chimp-level recall.
How to score higher
- Photograph the layout with your eyes before clicking 1 — take that free moment.
- Group nearby numbers so you remember clusters, not single positions.
- Don't rush the click on 1. Once you start, the numbers are hidden, so lock in the picture first.
Round out your brain training with number memory, sequence memory, and visual memory.
Frequently asked questions
What is the chimp test?
A working-memory test where numbers appear then hide, and you click them in order from memory. It is named after chimpanzees, who excel at this kind of recall.
What is a good chimp test score?
Around 8 to 10 numbers is average. 12 to 14 is strong, and 16 or more is excellent.
How many strikes do I get?
Three. Clicking out of order costs a strike, and the game ends at three. Your score is the highest count of numbers you cleared.
When do the numbers hide?
As soon as you click 1, the rest are covered. So study their positions before you make your first click.