Validation of Shortened AX-CPT Versions for Assessing Cognitive Control

Cognitive control can be indexed using the AX-Continuous Performance Task (AX-CPT), which distinguishes proactive from reactive control via performance on AY and BX trial types and derived indices such as d′-context and the Proactive Behavioral Index (PBI). However, standard AX-CPT implementations can be relatively time-consuming, which limits feasibility for brief, scalable assessments. The present study validates two shortened AX-CPT variants (Short1: 30 trials; Short2: 50 trials) by comparing key indices (AY error rate, BX error rate, d′-context, and PBI based on error rates) with those obtained from a full-length AX-CPT (100 trials) in an online adult sample. Secondary analyses evaluate agreement metrics and a reaction-time–based PBI. Exploratory analyses examine associations between task indices and depressive symptoms, perceived stress, and BIS/BAS.