Dual N-back is a memory challenge with a simple rule: spot when the current sound or position matches the one shown a certain number of steps earlier. This guide has instructions on how to play and a playable game within the browser.
Dual n-back is just one way to challenge your working memory and attention. If you’re new to cognitive exercises, our guide to what brain training is and how it works explains the principles behind brain training.
How Does Dual N-Back Work?
The “N” tells you how far back to look:
The “Dual” is for two pieces of information you’re tracking in this example - sound and position.
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1-back: Does this item and or sound match the previous item and or sound?
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2-back: Do they match the item and or sound two steps ago?
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3-back: Do they match the item and or sound three steps ago?
Dual N-Back Example: Sounds and Positions
Try this example
Imagine you’re playing 2-back and you hear these letters, one at a time:
You’re comparing each sound and position with the one exactly two steps back.
You hear these sounds in this order A → B → A → C → A
The third letter, A, matches the letter two steps earlier. The fifth letter A is also a match : it matches the A in third position.
At the same time you’re keeping track of position
With 2 Back
You see the following sequence
Middle Square - Top Left - Middle Square - Left Middle Square
The third position - Middle Square is a match with the First position. The fourth Left Middle Square is not a match as it doesn’t match Top Left Square.
Play Dual N-Back Online for Free
Your turn
If you miss a match, keep going and focus on the next item. Be kind to yourself it can take few rounds to get used to the rhythm.
Try N-back in your browser below. Start with 1-back first. When you pass the level 1, try 2-back. What level can you get to?
Wondering whether practising dual n-back actually improves your memory? Our review of dual n-back benefits and scientific evidence examines 80 research papers, exploring what training may improve.