Why Multitasking Fails (Sometimes)

Multitasking feels productive, but your brain doesn’t truly handle multiple demanding tasks at once. Instead, the prefrontal cortex rapidly switches attention between tasks. Each switch costs time and

mental energy, making you slower and more prone to mistakes.

Image Source: Via @SillyRobotCards

Tasks that require focus, like writing an essay while checking social media, are especially vulnerable. Even small distractions, like a phone notification, can interrupt working memory and make you forget what you were doing.

Interestingly, the brain can handle automatic tasks together, like walking while talking; these don’t rely heavily on attention. But when two tasks both demand focus, your performance suffers.

Multitasking also triggers more stress and cognitive fatigue. Your brain releases extra cortisol trying to juggle tasks, which can make decision-making feel harder and leave you mentally drained.

Your brain isn’t built to do multiple attention-heavy tasks at once. Focusing on one thing at a time is actually more efficient, and less stressful.