Make a list of every step from when you belt in and move from staging to the water. You need to be mechanical. Same burnout procedure, make sure temps are in the normal zone, same staging method, first or last, how/when you come up on the converter, everything. Brake pressure/release and trans temps will impact RT.

I agree with another post. Don't back up unless you absolutely must. And if you do back up, don't back into the water.

The message, is try to remove the car as a variable to the maximum extent possible.

Staging depth will affect reaction time.

Make sure you bump in the same distance.

Use a practice tree.

Work towards consistent .015 to .025 RTs.

Don't think. It's called Reaction Time for a reason.

With experience, you will see the tree better.

The eye is also very sensitive to light intensity. RTs vary between daytime and nighttime. Maybe a pair of anti-glare sun glasses like shooters use will help during day racing.

Good luck. Your RTs aren't that bad.

Paul