Applying the LATER model to reaction time data: an open-source toolkit.

Abstract

Analyzing reaction time distributions can provide insights into decision-making processes in the brain. The Linear Approach to Threshold with Ergodic Rate (LATER) model is arguably the simplest model for predicting reaction time distributions and can summarize distributions with as few as two free parameters. However, the coordinates for visualizing and fitting distributions with LATER ("reciprobit" space) are irregular, making the application of this simple model inaccessible to those without a programming background. Here we describe an open-source R package, LATERmodel, that allows for easy visualization of reaction time distributions, along with fitting of these with the LATER model. Using canonical data from the literature, we show that our tool replicates key features from previous LATER analysis tools, while also providing more robust fitting procedures and a more flexible method for fitting subpopulations of very rapid, early responses. Although all features of LATERmodel can be used directly in the statistical programming language R, key features are also available through a RShiny graphical user interface to allow researchers without programming background to apply the LATER model to their reaction time data.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Analyzing reaction time distributions provides a powerful tool for investigating decision-making processes. Here we describe an open-source toolbox to allow the Linear Approach to Threshold with Ergodic Rate (LATER) model, the simplest principled model linking reaction times and decisions, to be applied to empirical reaction time data, including by clinicians and scientists without any programming experience.