Short answer
A processing-speed task records how quickly and accurately someone completes specified operations. It is not a pure measure of how fast their brain works. Perception, attention, decisions and the physical response all contribute.
Reaction and comparison are different tasks
AurorIQ's reaction task asks for a response to a visual signal. Its processing-speed task asks whether short strings match. The second includes a comparison decision; neither removes motor demands, device latency or distractions. Simple reaction time also involves processing rather than being only a reflex.
What the code reports
The comparison task uses 30 trials. It reports correct responses, accuracy, timing, throughput and an internal composite index. Throughput describes correct judgments per minute. The interface withholds the speed index when accuracy is near chance for the two-choice task. The index has no representative population norms and is not an IQ score.
A faster attempt with more errors may reflect a different speed–accuracy choice. Compare both measures instead of celebrating the shortest time. A touchscreen and a keyboard may also introduce different response demands.
What research can and cannot add
Hartshorne and Germine’s lifespan study found different age patterns for different cognitive tasks. It argues against one universal age of peak cognition. It does not supply norms for this browser task or predict an individual's decline.
A practical comparison
If you try again, use the same device, input method and instructions. Note interruptions and familiarity. Ask “Was I more accurate at similar speed?” or “Did rushing add errors?” A single improvement does not establish a change in a stable ability.
For a broader explanation of model assumptions and interpretation limits, see the methodology. Unexpected real-world difficulties need more context than this task can provide.
References
- Hartshorne, J. K., & Germine, L. T. (2015). When Does Cognitive Functioning Peak? The Asynchronous Rise and Fall of Different Cognitive Abilities Across the Life Span. Psychological Science, 26, 433–443.
These sources support the specific research statements linked above. They do not establish reliability, norms or validity for AurorIQ.