Attention

Attention can be subdivided into “basic” or “complex” attention (Daffner et al, 2015)

• basic attention is prerequisite for all other cognitive processes, it involves being present and sustaining focus on a simple task.
• basic attention can be tested with digit span forward or TMT-A
• complex attention involves controlling, shifting, and dividing attention based on context
• complex attention can be tested with Stroop test, months of the year backwards, or TMT-B

Neuropsychological tests of attention (Daffner et al, 2015)

• Continuous performance test (CPT)
• Corsi blocks
• Digit span forward & backward
• N-back
• Oral trail making
• Paced auditory serial addition test (PASAT)
• Sequential operation series (i.e. months of the year backwards) (within public domain)
• Trail making test, parts A & B (within public domain)

References

Daffner, K. R. et al. Improving clinical cognitive testing: Report of the AAN Behavioral Neurology Section Workgroup. Neurology 85, 910–918 (2015). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26163433/