Brilliant
Brilliant teaches math, science, and computer science through interactive puzzles that require you to think before you see the answer. Sessions have clear completion points.
Why this score
Interactive problem-solving is the core mechanic. You can't passively consume the content; it requires active thinking at each step.
Mild streak mechanics and daily challenges exist. Push notifications remind you to practice. These are the only engagement compounds in an otherwise clean design.
The breakdown
- Attention Capture2.0
Mechanics designed to keep you in the app right now — infinite scroll, autoplay, variable rewards, and reactive swipe-tap loops.
- Habit Formation3.0
Mechanics designed to bring you back — streak coercion, default push notifications, and re-engagement of dormant users.
- Social Pressure2.0
How much the experience exploits social psychology — public metrics, profile curation, and status comparison against others.
- Time Theft2.0
Mechanics that steal more time than you intended to give — no stopping cues, short units, and 'just one more' loops.
- Cognitive Erosion1.0
Mechanics that replace your independent thinking, memory, or judgment — creating dependency on the tool to function.
- Cognitive Nourishment8.0
Whether the app actively strengthens your ability to think for yourself. Shown on the label, but it does not affect the score.
Recommended usage
The streak is mild. Don't let it override whether you actually want to learn today.