CognitionKit Digit Symbol Substitution (DSST)

The CognitionKit DSST is a global measure of cognitive ability, requiring multiple cognitive domains to complete effectively.

Administration time

90 Seconds

Task format

The task presents participants with an array of abstract symbols associated with numbers. When a particular number is highlighted on screen, the participant must draw the corresponding abstract shape using their index finger on the smartphone. This is a timed test, so the participant must try to complete as many symbol-to-number matches within the allotted timeframe.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures include total correct, errors and latency (movement latency and response latency).

Normative data 

Please contact us to discuss your normative data requirements. Please note, we do not recommend using normative data in place of a control group. 

When to use this test

We would recommend using this test to assess cognitive function in:

• Abuse Liability
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Attention deficit disorders
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Core cognition
• Depression and affective disorders
• Down’s syndrome
• Cognitive safety
• Neuromuscular diseases
• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Parkinson’s disease
• Schizophrenia
• Stroke and cerebrovascular disease
• Traumatic brain injury

Please note this test is not currently available in CANTAB Connect Research.