Slovak version of the Trail Making Test: Normative data

The Trail Making Test (TMT) is a popular measure of cognitive functioning, especially processing speed and cognitive flexibility. This study aims to provide normative data for the Slovak adult population. The secondary aim is to test the convergent validity by examining relationships of direct and derived indices to other neuropsychological measures. A sample of 487 healthy adults undertook neuropsychological testing. The relationships of TMT scores to demographic variables and other neuropsychological measures were tested. Age was positively correlated with TMT-A (r = 0.444, p < .01), TMT-B (r = 0.426, p < .01), and the B-A index (r = 0.317, p < .01). Years of education were negatively correlated with TMT-B (r = -0.183, p < .01), B-A difference (r = -0.188, p < .01) and B/A ratio (r = -0.119, p < .01). There were no statistically significant differences in performance based on gender. The test scores were correlated with other measures of processing speed and executive functions. Presented normative data are stratified into 7 age categories. For more accurate interpretation, regression equations were calculated to take years of education into account. TMT-A and B performance, as well as B-A difference score, must be interpreted in relation to age, while education can provide additional information. The B/A ratio is independent from age but should be also corrected for educational level.

Automated summary

The Trail Making Test (TMT) is a widely used measure of cognitive function, with this study providing normative data for the Slovak adult population. Age showed positive correlations with TMT scores, while education years were negatively correlated. Gender did not have a significant impact on performance. TMT scores were related to processing speed and executive functions.