What Multitasking Really Is

Module 1, Lesson 1 of Single-Tasking Practice

Multitasking usually means switching. When you answer a message during a report, your attention leaves the report, deals with the message and then has to find its way back. Each switch takes a little time and a little mental effort, even when it feels instant.

Those small costs add up. Research on task switching consistently finds that switching back and forth tends to be slower and more error-prone than finishing one thing at a time, especially for work that needs thought. The feeling of being busy and productive can hide this.

Single-tasking is the practice of giving one task your full attention for a defined period. It is not about never being interrupted; it is about choosing when to switch rather than letting every alert decide for you.

Try this

Choose a 25-minute task today. Close everything not needed for it and put your phone out of reach. Afterwards, note how the work felt compared with your usual way of working.

Key takeaways

Most multitasking is rapid switching
Each switch carries a small cost in time and effort
Single-tasking means choosing when to switch

Continue with Single-Tasking Practice

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