What is Multitasking? This term stems from ‘computer multitasking’. It has much to do with the computer’s ability to perform multiple tasks at the same time. Therefore, human multitasking is a human’s ability to perform multiple tasks at the same time. Many times, we multitask without even knowing, for example, watching TV, texting, surfing through social media and even listening to music while working. There are so many examples of multitasking in our everyday life.
Multitasking in the brain is controlled by something called “mental-executive functions”. These executive functions manage a variety of cognitive processes and decide how, when and in what order some tasks are completed.
Reasons for inefficient multitasking.
- The brain is not built for multitasking. Studies have shown that the brain is not capable of focusing on one task 100% when multitasking. This can in turn slow down work and result in a few if not more errors. When multitasking, the brain is compelled to stop and refocus attention each time a task is switched which leads to a loss of time.
- Continuous partial attention. This is where you skim through the data without actually processing the knowledge and getting in depth knowledge of the data. The problem here is that not processing the full data leads to missing things out and making errors.
- Inability to prioritise. This is usually the main reason why people fail at multitasking. Prioritising actually helps to set out which task is more important and therefore which one a person should focus on. Without this, it is difficult to effectively multitask apart from the limitations set by the brain.
How to effectively multitask
Despite the fact that we have established that the brain is not built for multitasking therefore true multitasking is not achievable, it is a skill that one must have in either education or work place and therefore must learn to do for one to excel at it. Below are a few methods on how to multitask effectively.
- Plan: Before the start of the workday or school day, make a to-do list on what you have to do for that day. This then helps you to prioritise your work from the most important to the similar ones that can be grouped together. You can purchase a planner or use your phone as one to help with this. Planning helps you visualise and prioritise the next day properly.
- Prioritise: Having a clear understanding on which task is urgent and important is crucial so that more attention can be focused on it. This eliminates room for errors especially where errors shouldn’t be made. A list could help when prioritising tasks from the most urgent, to the most important to the least important so that the most urgent/ important can be handled one at a time rather than giving all divided attention. After the day, make a list of what has been achieved and look for ways to improve yourself from the previous task.
- Solving tasks in blocks. When prioritising, something advisable to do is to group similar tasks that can be completed together. Then you can also time them and allocate time slots for each task, this way time isn’t being wasted on unnecessary things and this helps with self-discipline. Also allocate slots for breaks as these are quite important to maintain focus.
- Avoiding distractions. When multitasking, an important thing to take note of is avoiding distractions. Simple things like, turning off your phone, telling team members/friends or family that you want to be left alone to focus and many more. Emails, chats that pop up can also be distraction so this is something to be wary of. Minimising distractions as much as possible is key to multitasking to also reduce possible errors that could be made in the process.
Should you multitask?
Having gone through these steps, it is evident that multitasking takes discipline and self-control as well as organisation. This all boils down to the person. So when thinking about multitasking, work around what works for you. This is an important skill to have when studying and working. Employers are also always on the lookout for this skill and improving oneself is important.