In today’s world of information overload, multitasking has become the norm. People increasingly try to do multiple tasks simultaneously: checking messages while working, studying with open social media, or responding to emails during a meeting. However, more and more research indicates that multitasking not only fails to increase productivity but also harms cognitive functions. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle will explore how multitasking affects the brain, what risks it poses to learning, and how to reduce its negative impact.
What Is Multitasking and Why Has It Become Popular?
Multitasking is the attempt to perform two or more tasks that require attention at the same time. For example, talking on the phone while writing a report. The idea of multitasking originated in the technical world, where computers can process several tasks at once. However, the human brain is structured differently.
In the digital age, the popularity of multitasking is linked to the desire to be productive, fast, and respond immediately. Social media, messages, emails — all create the illusion that multitasking is a necessity. But does it really make us more efficient?
Common Examples of Multitasking:
- Studying while watching a series in the background
- Driving while talking on the phone
- Checking messages during an online meeting
- Replying to emails while preparing a report
Unfortunately, studies show that each of these forms reduces task performance quality.
How the Brain Works During Multitasking
Our brains do not actually perform multiple tasks simultaneously. Instead, they quickly switch between tasks, consuming resources for each transition. This process is known as “context switching,” and it comes with a cost.
Key Brain Processes During Multitasking:
- The prefrontal cortex is responsible for planning and decision-making. It is activated when switching tasks.
- The working memory center is engaged in retaining information about each task.
- The attention system shifts, creating a strain on the cognitive system.
The more frequently we switch, the more fatigued the brain becomes. This leads to a loss of focus, increased fatigue, and more errors in task execution.
The Impact of Multitasking on Productivity
While multitasking may seem efficient, it actually significantly lowers productivity. A Stanford University study showed that people who frequently engage in multitasking have worse focus, poorer memory, and process information more slowly.
Main Consequences:
- Decreased work speed — more time is spent on tasks.
- Increased error rate — due to lack of focus.
- Lower quality of thinking — decision-making becomes harder.
- Reduced creativity — creative thinking requires concentration.
- Higher stress — the brain becomes overloaded with constant switching.
How Multitasking Affects Learning Ability
Learning is a cognitive process that requires concentration, memory, and analytical thinking. Multitasking harms each of these components.
Main Mechanisms of Impact:
- Weakened long-term memory: new information does not have time to consolidate in the brain.
- Shallow processing of material: attention is divided.
- Poor understanding of complex concepts: the brain lacks enough resources for deep analysis.
This is especially problematic for children and students who often study with background noise or messages.
Research Findings:
- Students who listen to music with lyrics retain 40% less information.
- Students who check their phones during lectures have worse grades.
Comparison: Monotasking vs. Multitasking
| Parameter | Monotasking | Multitasking |
|---|---|---|
| Attention | Full | Divided |
| Task Performance Quality | High | Average or low |
| Error Rate | Low | High |
| Stress | Low | High |
| Information Retention | Deep | Shallow |
Who Is Most Vulnerable to the Effects of Multitasking?
Studies show that certain groups of people are particularly sensitive to the negative effects of multitasking:
- Teenagers and young people — their brains are still developing, making them especially vulnerable.
- Older adults — as we age, task-switching slows down.
- Workers in digital professions — due to the constant need to respond to new information.
These groups often overestimate their multitasking abilities, which makes the situation worse.
How to Reduce the Negative Impact of Multitasking
There are proven ways to reduce the impact of multitasking on cognitive performance:
- Plan your day with a focus on one task at a time
- Turn off notifications during focus time
- Set clear time limits for each task
- Use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of work – 5 minutes of rest)
- Allocate time for recovery (sleep, rest, physical activity)
Practical Tips:
- Don’t study with social media tabs open
- Close other programs while reading or listening to lectures
- Use focused environments (e.g., Forest or Cold Turkey apps)
Is Effective Learning Possible Without Multitasking?
Multitasking is not a superpower, but a trap that reduces productivity, complicates learning, and harms the brain. To learn effectively and remain productive, it’s important to choose focus and deliberate task execution. Only then can you achieve deep understanding, maintain attention, and reduce stress. The ability to concentrate is the new superpower of the 21st century.
Earlier we wrote about what is emotional burnout and how to deal with it.