Flow chart showing contingencies for the free-choice trials in the variable-ratio task. Definitions: VR, variable ratio; FR, fixed-ratio. Free-choice trials allow the rat to make a selection between the VR lever, which delivers the large reinforcer (100Hz) immediately after the required number of presses is completed and the FR lever that delivers the small reinforcer (50Hz) immediately after 3 presses. If no selection is made within 28s, the levers are withdrawn, and a new trial begins 2s later.