A simple way to dispel popular myths about multi-tasking

By I_g_o_r | Simple solutions to complex problems | 24 Sep 2024

There are many popular myths about multi-tasking, which are false. For example, such myths as:

-multi-tasking is an universal human ability, which can be applied to any situation;

-multi-tasking improve productivity;

-multi-tasking improve performance;

-multi-tasking improve efficiency;etc.

A simple way to dispel such myths is to use the method of reduction to absurdity/contradiction (see [1]).

Let us apply this method to a triathlon. A triathlon is an endurance multi-sport race consisting of swimming, cycling, and running over various distances (see [2]). In our imagination, we can entertain ourselves that arms and torso can swim, one leg runs and the other leg cycles at the same time, but such multi-tasking is not possible in the real life. Therefore, multi-tasking is not an universal human activity applied to all situations.

Many researchers point out that what we call multi-tasking is, in fact, tasks switching. For example, in [3] it is pointed out that: “Multitasking refers to a person’s ability to deal with more than one conscious thought or information processes (tasks) at the same time with no loss of speed or accuracy. Multitasking is a myth because in fact what people are doing is task-switching. This involves very rapidly switching from one task to another, pausing and returning to the previous task. We are quickly shifting our focus and attention from one task to another. For things that require our conscious effort and concentration, it is all but impossible to do two things at once. People often assume (or pretend) that they are multi-tasking, but they are task-switching.”

Let us consider what happen in our example, when the person will be switching from one task to other. If this person swims some distance and then starts cyclyng she/he will lose in swimming. When she/he switches from cycling to running, before finishing the cycling stage, she/he will lose in cycling. Therefore, if a person will be switching tasks, before finishing them, in a triathlon, then this person will lose with 100% of certainty. Therefore, this example dispels myths about improving efficiency, productivity, performance, etc. by multi-tasking (switching tasks).

“Multitasking feels more productive and effective. Multitasking is when you tackle more than one task at the same time. Or at least, that’s what you think it is. In reality, you’re switching between multiple tasks in rapid succession. Research done by Dr. David Meyer and Dr. Joshua Rubinstein showed that even these brief mental blocks that happen as a result of context switching cost as much as 40% of someone’s productive time. Because it takes mental effort to switch between cognitive tasks, multitasking affects your ability to get work done efficiently and effectively.” See [4].

Researchers pointed out that: ”Another common misconception is that multitasking improves our performance because it allows us to look at a problem with a ‘fresh eye.’ Evidence also indicates that chronic multi-taskers perform worse in many cognitive tasks.” See [5].

“As multiple studies have confirmed, true multitasking—doing more than one task at the same time—is a myth. People who think they can split their attention between multiple tasks at once aren’t actually getting more done. In fact, they’re doing less, getting more stressed out, and performing worse than those who single-task.” See [6].

Multiple studies and research over the last decade show that “multi-tasking” leads to stress, lack of attention, worsened memory. If doing it for a long time then it may lead to chronic medical conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). See {7-15].

The author of [8] points out that: “Multitasking temporarily increases stress levels which raises blood pressure and heart rate. Multitasking is also associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety. These effects can be temporary, but chronically increased blood pressure and stress can have permanent effects on the brain by increasing risk for cerebrovascular disease and cognitive impairment.”

The author of [10] points out that: “Chronic multitaskers tend to show more impulsivity than their peers, and they may be more likely to downplay possible risks associated with tackling multiple things at once. They also seem to show lower levels of executive control and are often distracted easily.”

For a long-term memory improvement, you can use the method of mnemonics (see [16]).

For a working memory improvement, you can use the working memory stimulator (see [17])

For how to optimize learning efficiency from reading dense textual info, see [18].

References:

1. https://sms.math.nus.edu.sg/smsmedley/Vol-08-1/Reductio%20ad%20absurdum%20-%20proof%20by%20contradiction(YK%20Leong).pdf

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triathlon

3. https://evidencebased.education/the-multitasking-myth/

4. https://asana.com/resources/multitasking

5. https://neuroleadership.com/your-brain-at-work/the-myth-of-multitasking

6. https://blog.rescuetime.com/multitasking/

7. https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2018/10/decade-data-reveals-heavy-multitaskers-reduced-memory-psychologist-says

8. https://www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/multitasking-and-how-it-affects-your-brain-health