Article topic; The Science of Multitasking, and Why You Should Doodle in Class
Summary
Sometimes, we do many things once in a while, and those are known as good multitaskers. Psychologists have been suggesting that it is harmful to greater efficiency, and some other says you can't do it all. For example, talking on the phone while driving whether you are using your hands or not, laws allowing hands-free cellphone use, but still, you are out of focus. On the other hand, other studies show that multitasking can be beneficial. One study showed drivers do not get tired or less focused through a long and drowsy path while having a conversation on the phone call. Similarly, another study shows that doodling could be better than attending a "boring" class because the mind does not hold back revolving thoughts through unconscious activities. Furthermore, the flipping of attention from one task to another task may, fortunately, be something observers call "rapid task switching," what many people consider a scenario of multitasking. Thus, psychologists believe that the performance can be condensed temporarily through a delay of consciousness and attention when you switch from one thing to another. And that cost comes with task-switching. But if you think of switching attention every few seconds or every few minutes, the productivity of connection towards your focused task may deal with a cognitive cost. Certainly, the findings observed by cognitive psychologists in the real world, identifying faces and then facial expressions of gender or reduction of 40 percent critical ability, are very respective to understanding the range of science measurement behind the interruptions, such as attending a call while writing a focused report.
Practical advice: ultimately, multitasking is not all bad; if something can be done easily and unconsciously then there is room for multitasking. Meanwhile, try a planned or structured routine for your day into half-hour chunks; therefore, the solid and most practical advice covered in the article is that when doing something that requires thinking, don't do anything else.
Outline of the Article
1. Introduction to Multitasking
- Many individuals perceive themselves as proficient multitaskers.
- However, psychological research indicates that engaging in multitasking can negatively impact overall productivity.
2. The Reality of Task-Switching
- Multitasking frequently involves rapid switching between tasks rather than simultaneous execution.
- This task-switching incurs a cognitive cost, resulting in delays and diminished performance.
3. When Multitasking Can Be Beneficial
- Activities such as doodling during lectures or listening to music while studying may enhance focus for some individuals.
- Strategically pairing tasks that do not compete for cognitive resources can yield effective outcomes.
4. Practical Advice
- It is advisable to refrain from multitasking when engaged in tasks that require deep cognitive processing.
- Organizing work into focused intervals, such as half-hour blocks, while minimizing distractions is recommended.
5. Conclusion
- While multitasking is not inherently detrimental, it is essential to employ it strategically.
- Commitment to focused work promotes improved productivity and mental clarity.