We like to think we’re great at multitasking juggling emails while listening to a meeting, responding to messages while drafting reports, or switching between tasks without losing momentum.
But here’s the truth: Multitasking doesn’t exist.
The Science Behind Why the Brain Can’t Multitask
We often assume multitasking makes us more efficient, but research proves otherwise. The human brain isn’t built to truly focus on multiple tasks at once instead, it rapidly switches attention, which comes at a cognitive cost.
✔ Switch-tasking increases mental fatigue – According to Miller & Cohen (2001), the prefrontal cortex, responsible for executive control, struggles to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Each time we switch, the brain must reset cognitive processes, leading to a decline in efficiency. You can explore their research on prefrontal cortex function here.
✔ Task-switching slows down productivity – Rubenstein, Meyer & Evans (2001) found that people who multitask take up to 40% longer to complete tasks and make more mistakes due to cognitive load. Their study on executive control in task switching is available here.
✔ Interruptions cause loss of focus – Mark, Gudith & Klocke (2008) discovered that after an interruption, it takes an average of 23 minutes to regain full focus meaning frequent switching creates long-term inefficiencies. Their study on the cost of interrupted work can be found here.
So while multitasking feels productive, what we’re actually doing is switch-tasking, forcing our brain to restart focus repeatedly. In reality, single-tasking leads to deeper concentration, fewer mistakes, and better overall efficiency
The 1–26 / A–Z Test: A Simple Way to See Switch-Tasking in Action
If you’ve ever wondered how switch-tasking affects efficiency, try this experiment:
Step 1:
✔ Write numbers 1 to 26 in order.
✔ Then, separately, write letters A to Z in order.
✔ Time yourself—notice how quickly you complete both.
Step 2:
✔ Now, write them alternatively—1, A, 2, B, 3, C… all the way to 26/Z.
✔ Time yourself again.
Most people take longer in Step 2, feel mentally drained, and notice more mistakes creeping in. That’s because switch-tasking disrupts focus, forcing your brain to repeatedly reset instead of working smoothly on one task.
Personal Insights: How Multitasking Affects My Productivity
Over the years, I’ve realised that multitasking isn’t just inefficient it’s exhausting. Every time I try to juggle multiple tasks, I feel the drain on my focus, clarity, and overall energy.
✔ The cost of task-switching – When I jump between writing a blog post and checking notifications, I notice it takes longer to get back into deep focus, losing precious time in the reset.
✔ How it impacts energy levels – Managing Chronic Fatigue has made it impossible to ignore the impact of switch-tasking. The more I jump between tasks, the faster my energy depletes.
✔ The power of single-tasking – When I embrace Time Blocking and Energy Management, I work in a way that protects my focus and energy. Allocating dedicated time for deep work, admin, and family life ensures I stay present without mental overload.
I’ve learned that working smarter isn’t about doing more at once it’s about doing things at the right time with full focus.
How to Reduce Switch-Tasking & Improve Focus
If multitasking is a myth, what’s the best way to stay efficient while handling multiple priorities?
1️⃣ Embrace Single-Tasking
✔ Prioritise deep work—complete one important task before moving to the next.
✔ Eliminate distractions—turn off notifications and minimise task-hopping.
✔ Use time blocks—dedicate focus time to specific activities instead of constantly shifting.
2️⃣ Batch Similar Tasks Together
✔ Group related activities—emails, calls, admin work so they require less cognitive resetting.
✔ Avoid mixing high-focus tasks with low-focus tasks, as this disrupts mental flow.
3️⃣ Take Structured Breaks
✔ Instead of forcing productivity through exhaustion, take short breaks between tasks to reset focus.
✔ Schedule breaks intentionally, rather than letting distractions dictate them.
Final Thoughts: Focus is More Powerful Than “Multitasking”
✔ Multitasking is an illusion we’re actually switch-tasking.
✔ Switch-tasking reduces accuracy, increases stress, and wastes time.
✔ Focusing on one task at a time leads to better efficiency, deeper work, and less fatigue.
We often think multitasking is the key to productivity, but research shows it actually slows us down. Have you noticed this in your own work or daily life?
💬 Do you find single-tasking improves your focus, or do certain types of multitasking still work for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your perspective!
Tori Uncensored 
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