Trails

In the Trail task, a set of spheres containing numbers, letters, or various attributes is presented to the client in a 3D space. The client must identify target stimuli and connect them according to specific rules. Throughout the exercise, the client must employ sequencing skills to follow the stimuli in the correct order. For clients who find letters challenging, the “Small to Large” mode provides the same cognitive exercise without the need for letters.

Another mode presents each number in two different colors and requires the client to proceed by alternating between those colors—this is the “Color Trails Test.” Since this version does not depend on reading letters, it is highly suitable for clients with low literacy.

In advanced stages, rules such as alternating numbers and letters, alternating colors or sizes, reverse execution, and computational modes are introduced. As the number of spheres increases and distractor stimuli are added, the client’s visual search, stimulus selection, and cognitive flexibility are more intensely challenged.

The therapeutic goal of the Trail task is to enhance executive functions, cognitive flexibility, and visual attention. Throughout the session, the client must perform a visual search for target stimuli within a 3D space, identify their sequence, adhere to established connection rules, and adapt their strategy when rules change. Consequently, this exercise engages critical cognitive processes, including sequencing, processing speed, attentional control, and visual search.

This task is designed for integration into cognitive rehabilitation programs for individuals experiencing impairments in executive function and attention. It is indicated for clients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Specific Learning Disorders (sLD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Stroke, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Parkinson’s disease, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The tool is highly applicable in hospitals, cognitive rehabilitation centers, occupational therapy clinics, neurology departments, and post-injury or post-stroke recovery facilities.

Start with numbers. Ensure stable performance in the simple mode before progressing to alternating (number-letter) or color modes.

1. Speed per step and per chain
2. Errors (out-of-order picks)
3. The alternating-to-simple speed ratio — automatic, every session
4. Head-scan range on wide skies