Attention and multitasking

In short: The brain cannot concentrate on two demanding tasks at once. “Multitasking” is in reality rapid switching back and forth, which costs time and promotes errors.

In more detail: Each switch incurs switching costs: the brain has to reset, and remnants of the previous task interfere (“attention residue”).

In detail

• Working memory: Limited capacity (gedaechtnis-und-arbeitsgedaechtnis).
• Distractions: Notifications and constant smartphone checking fragment concentration.
• Single tasks: One thing at a time, in blocks of 25–50 minutes (zeitmanagement-pomodoro-eisenhower-und-priorisieren).
• Exceptions: Automated activities (walking) can be combined with others.
• Learning: With a phone within reach you learn worse, even if you do not use it.
• Traffic: Using a phone at the wheel greatly raises accident risk (bremsweg-und-anhalteweg).
• Recovery: Breaks and walks restore attention.