CRT
Cognitive Reflection Test
A 3-question test of reflective vs. intuitive thinking.
Each question has an intuitive answer that comes to mind quickly — but it is wrong. Take a moment to think before choosing.
About the CRT
The Cognitive Reflection Test was developed by Shane Frederick (2005) to measure the ability — or disposition — to resist an intuitive but incorrect response and engage in further reflection. Each question has a “gut reaction” answer that feels obviously right but is wrong. The correct answer requires overriding that first impulse.
3 questions. Takes about 2–3 minutes. Originally open-ended numeric input; presented here as multiple choice.
What it measures
The CRT does not measure intelligence directly. It correlates with response inhibition, executive function, and decision-making patterns — specifically the tendency to think slowly and carefully vs. quickly and intuitively. 83% of people miss at least one question.
Context
The CRT does not directly assess autism or any clinical condition. It is included here as a complementary measure of cognitive style. Autistic individuals may show different patterns of reflective vs. intuitive processing, and the test can be interesting as a self-awareness exercise.
Note: An estimated 44–51% of test-takers are already familiar with these questions, which affects the validity of their result. If you’ve seen these problems before, your score may not reflect your natural cognitive style.
Frederick, S. (2005). Cognitive Reflection and Decision Making. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 19(4), 25–42.