Corsi Block Test Explained: Spatial Memory Science and Training Guide [2026]

What is the Corsi Block-Tapping Task?

The Corsi Block-Tapping Task is a classic neuropsychological assessment designed to measure spatial working memory. In this test, you observe a series of blocks light up in sequence, then reproduce that sequence by tapping the blocks in the same order.

Created by Philip Michael Corsi in 1972 at McGill University under the supervision of renowned neuropsychologist Brenda Milner, this test has become one of the most important tools for assessing visuospatial memory in clinical and research settings.

Scientific Background

History of the Corsi Block Test

The Corsi Block-Tapping Test was developed as part of Philip Corsi's doctoral dissertation at McGill University in 1972. Working under Brenda Milner, Corsi was investigating the role of the hippocampus and medial temporal lobe structures in memory.

The test was inspired by the Hebb recurring digit task (Hebb, 1961). As Corsi himself noted, his Block-Tapping Task "is identical in design to the Hebb digits task, but the items are spatial not numerical."

The original apparatus consisted of 9 wooden cubes placed irregularly on a board. The examiner would tap blocks with a pointer in a specific sequence, and the participant would reproduce the pattern.

The Science of Spatial Working Memory

Spatial working memory is the ability to temporarily hold and manipulate spatial information. According to Alan Baddeley's influential working memory model, this function is handled by the visuospatial sketchpad—a mental workspace for visual and spatial information.

The Corsi task specifically measures spatial span: the maximum number of spatial locations a person can remember in correct sequence. Unlike verbal span (measured by digit span), spatial span relies on different neural circuits, primarily involving the right hemisphere and parietal cortex.

Research has shown that:

• The average adult spatial span is approximately 5-6 items
• Spatial span tends to decline with age
• Training can improve spatial working memory capacity
• Spatial and verbal working memory are partially independent systems

Cognitive Abilities Measured

How to Play

1. Start the Game

   Click the "Start" button to begin. Nine blocks will appear in random positions on the screen.

2. Watch the Sequence

   Blocks will light up one at a time in a specific sequence. Watch carefully to remember which blocks light up and in what order.

3. Repeat the Sequence

   When it's your turn, tap the blocks in the same order they lit up. A progress indicator shows how many blocks you've correctly tapped.

4. Level Up

   Successfully completing a sequence advances you to the next level, which adds one more block to remember. The game continues until you make a mistake.

Score Guide

Tips and Strategies

1. Visualize the Path - Instead of memorizing individual block positions, trace an imaginary line connecting the blocks in sequence. This creates a continuous spatial pattern that's easier to remember.

2. Use Landmarks - Notice blocks near corners, edges, or in distinctive positions. These spatial landmarks can anchor your memory of the sequence.

3. Chunk the Sequence - Group blocks into smaller clusters. For a 6-block sequence, remember it as two groups of 3 rather than six individual items.

4. Stay Focused - Avoid distractions during the presentation phase. Your spatial attention must be fully engaged to encode the sequence accurately.

5. Practice Regularly - Spatial working memory responds to training. Regular practice can expand your spatial span over time.

Forward vs. Backward Corsi

The classic Corsi task (forward) asks you to repeat sequences in the same order presented. A backward version also exists, where you reproduce the sequence in reverse order.

Interestingly, research suggests that backward Corsi is not significantly harder than forward Corsi for most people—unlike Digit Span, where backward is notably more difficult. This may indicate different processing demands for spatial versus verbal information.

Combining with Other Training

The Corsi Block task pairs well with other cognitive training exercises:

Related Articles:

• Digit Span Test Guide
• What is Working Memory?
• How to Start Dual N-Back

FAQ

Conclusion

The Corsi Block-Tapping Task has been a cornerstone of neuropsychological assessment since its creation in 1972. What began as a research tool has proven to be an effective way to measure and train spatial working memory.

Whether you're interested in cognitive assessment, brain training, or simply challenging yourself, the Corsi Block task offers a scientifically grounded approach to understanding and improving your spatial memory abilities.

The simple task of watching and reproducing spatial sequences engages fundamental cognitive processes that we use every day—from navigating our environment to understanding visual information. Regular practice can help maintain and even enhance these essential abilities.