The Myth of Multitasking Test (2014 Version - See Description for newest video!)

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[@DaveCrenshaw]

There is a NEW VERSION OF THIS VIDEO: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5a0qpmfp91lfqM Please use the NEW version, as it clears up common misconceptions. Thanks!

[@tishbeaver4294]

Love this video!! This is exactly what I was looking for: an interactive experiment I can use at my Distracted Driving talks & presentations. Supervisors believe that productivity and profits will go down if they inact a no cell phone while driving policy, but the truth is, they will see better results or at the very least, status quo. This helps to convince them. You're awesome! New subscriber here! Love your short but info-packed videos.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you so much, Tish Beaver. Glad to be able to help fight distracted driving. This is a major issue and I really appreciate what you're doing!

[@viswanathankasi]

Excellent approach to prove multitasking lower's our productivity. I like the simple interactive exercise as it sticks to any one mind so easily.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

+Viswanathan Nachiappan Thank you! You got the point. :-) There are plenty of hard studies to back this up, and I cite them extensively in my book, The Myth of Multitasking. Yet a personal, eye-opening experience has a more powerful effect on behavior.

[@justinsherrod7270]

Amazing and powerful exercise. I did the first piece in less than 25 seconds and couldn't even complete the second task in the time allotted. This was powerful for me. Thanks for creating and sharing this!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

I'm so glad to hear it's helped you, Justin!

[@AafkeArt]

I like the differentiation between ''switch''- and ''background''- tasking. And I agree very much with your writing. I can almost feel the switching going on in my mind. I have been trying to make it clear to people that I want to concentrate on the task at hand without interruptions. For some reason they don't get it...

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks, AafkeArt! If you need help convincing people of the need to focus, please have them take this video test. I've found it to be very effective at persuading others to see things differently.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

As promised, here are the definitions of switchtasking and background tasking: Switchtasking = attempting to do multiple attention-requiring tasks at the same time. Each switch in attention incurs switching cost, which includes a loss of time, decrease in performance, and an increase in stress levels. When most people say they are “multitasking,” they are most often referring to switchtasking. Background tasking = performing a task while something mindless or mundane occurs in the background. Examples include: delegating tasks to employees while you work on more valuable activities, putting a machine to work on a large job while you answer email, and exercising while you listen to music. Background tasking can improve productivity overall.

[@1997Hooker]

Great idea Dave. Instead of switchtasking by cooking dinner and taking care of my children, I'm going to cook dinner and neglect my kids. Efficiency is key!!

[@cookiedove659]

@@1997Hooker Great idea spread the word everyone needs to know this.

[@chloebuel6452]

So listening to music while doing a task is background tasking. I always wondered why I do better with music on then when I don't. This is really eye-opening.

[@TheBedsideTable]

I loved this video, and the exercise! I'm totally a hands-on person when it comes to learning, so just "knowing" that multitasking causes productivity issues isn't necessarily enough for it have a meaningful impact - doing the exercise really puts into perspective just how real of a thief multitasking (or switchtasking) is! Thanks for this cool little vid. :)

[@tankwarren5948]

Wow! The funny part is that everything said in this video is true! Goodness the second time around I legit got frustrated trying to do both because it didn't feel like anything was flowing.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for sharing, Shanithia!

[@MariaSanchez-qv1of]

Wow, did this for a school assignment, and like previous posts, I too prided myself on being this great multitasker and was ready to blow everyone out of the water with my awesome skills. However, things did not go according to plan I got 10 secs the first time and 50 secs the second time, with more confusion and stress!!! I noticed I had to train my mind in those few seconds to switch back and forth (which was so hard) and I had to look to the top line to spell the word because I couldn't spell and remember numbers at the same time! This is a great exercise and a big eye-opener. I will have to change my way of life from now on because i can't stand the thought of how much time I'm wasting.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

I'm very happy to have helped you see how unproductive switchtasking truly is for us. Here's to lowered stress, improved quality of work AND getting things done faster. Thanks for sharing, Maria!

[@michaeltaylo246]

I’m constantly told by some professional that you have to multitask like me if you want to work and succeed here. As I watched many of these people who PRIDE themselves and cannot stop tell me how great they are for multitasking my mind is blown. I kust see what they are dooing is following a workflow which many of them dont know what a, workflow is. These people are in a constant cloud of “I’m great follow me!’ Thanks for our video, great stuff.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you, Michael!

[@lifearchitectingwithryanse4725]

Great video, Dave. Was fortunate to learn superb time management early in my career but has since become victim to many who has not. Unfortunately those who need this video do not have the "free time" to view it.. ha!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Isn't that ironic, Ry! Thanks for commenting...and feel free to share it. ;-)

[@b-mccurdy7177]

Crazy experiment. I liked going through it for my SCL 1001 course. Interesting effect in comparing the two methods.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you, Brandon! Sometimes we need to see the truth on paper to believe it.

[@davidblum7852]

great exercise Dave! Thanks so much

[@DaveCrenshaw]

You're welcome, David Blum!

[@user-gv3kk4ts9b]

17 seconds followed by 21 seconds. I kept my eyes fixed on the letters in the first row while writing out the third and fourth row so quality of the handwriting suffered: such ad spacing of the words was off, the writing did not follow the horizontal lines I drew. I managed to not make any mistakes but the writing still looks like it was done by a drunken person. My heart rate also sped up, and I was taking shallower breaths... Here is something else I learned from your video, though, which I think is worth emphasizing... What I think was even more alarming and critical than using more time to complete the task while multitasking is that, cognitively, I did not absorb the meaning of the sentence like I did whilst writing the first line. In other words, I did not focus on understanding the actual meaning of the sentence I was copying. The task of copying down the words became a lot more mechanical in nature. Had the sentence been an entire paragraph of words (so the numbers I'd have to write might be 1 through 100 instead of only 1 through 21), I doubt I'd be able to recall the contents of the paragraph exactly as it is written. Due to having to write letters and numbers in an alternating fashion, my brain treated the words no longer as meaningful words that made up a sentence, but rather as disjointed letters that on each of their own, does not convey meaning. Multitasking is more suitable for tasks that require minimal amount of thought and comprehension. It can really reduce people to machines doing rote muscle-memory work that is not meaningful, I guess? Sure, I did get the work done in more or less the same time, but quality suffered, my body took on more stress, and my recall and comprehension took a back seat.... Am I making some sense? Taking it in that light and the reality of life, your video is a bit of a Debbie Downer. I feel a tiny bit depressed...? lol. But oh well. :) Interesting topic, Dave! It got me thinking! Thanks for sharing.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Cindy! That's the goal of this video: to convince the unconvinced that multitasking is a lie.

[@amarie6793]

One thing I am going to do today to make sure I am focusing on my tasks rather than switchtasking is waking up on time. Being ahead of my day will prevent me from feeling behind causing me to want to complete multiple things at once.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

That's a great idea, Amarie! Good for you.

[@RDHlisa]

It's not just generational...we all do it! Great excercise by Dave Crenshaw demonstrating the inefficiency of switchtasking! Give it a try.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Very true, Lisa. Thanks!

[@lyndarupert3292]

As an adult with ADHD, I find I can concentrate better if I am doing a mindless task - coloring, creating calendars, doodling, etc. Of this is not when I am expected to be physically working.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for sharing what works for you, Lynda!

[@samuelthamburaj]

Very simple and convincing demonstration... The difference between Switch & Background will be me do a better job when I talk about multitasking next time. Thanks

[@DaveCrenshaw]

I'm glad you find this helpful, Samuel. Thank you!

[@samuelthamburaj]

Is it OK with you if I (or my colleague) use this in our sessions. We do one day seminars on CCPM. Every time convincing people to eliminate/reduce multitasking is a challenge. This would help. Please let me know if it is OK with you.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Samuel Thamburaj Sorry for the delayed reply, just saw this. KZbin comment notification hasn't been working well for us. Yes, you're always welcome to use this as long as you cite the course and please provide the link to my main website: DaveCrenshaw DOT com

[@Avuyile11]

focused approach = 25 seconds; switch tasking approach = 34 seconds

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for sharing your results, Avuyile.

[@mdjsimmer]

Thanks Dave I love this test I use it as part of a safety class showing people how a lack of focus result in increased injuries and the increased stress can cause fatigue equaling more injuries

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you for sharing the exercise to your class, Jason! Multitasking is one of the leading causes of accidents and injuries. Indeed, we have to stop this multitasking madness!

[@TheGreatslyfer]

Only thing that needs to be addressed is the somewhat unrealistic switching that takes place. In this experiment, you switch tasks pretty much in under a second, where that can cause considerable brain lag if you will when trying to refocus on the new task. In the real world though the time taken to switch tasks is much longer, hence you are able to focus more time, percentage wise, on just focusing on the task at hand, and less time, percentage wise, on switching tasks and trying to refocus on the new task at hand. Not saying that this experiment was not good enough to prove the claim that multitasking is generally worse than single-tasking, just a note to consider.

[@trevorpeterson4451]

Wow! This was a great example! Thanks

[@DaveCrenshaw]

You're welcome, Trevor.

[@charliefrias3809]

For me, the time nearly doubled (20 vs 39). I was off by one number (I only wrote up to 20 and I don't know where my mismatch occurred), and my numbers were sloppy (e.g. I wrote a letter instead of a number at one point). The first task was certainly easier/less stressful, and I'm sure that the second should have been made easier because I had basically practiced it once already by doing the first task first. This video reveals a lot. But you have to find the sweet spot. It isn't the whole story of course, because some tasks *impose* interruptions upon you, and the length of those 'waits' is critical in determining whether you can/should switch to other tasks while you wait. But it is a great example of why some tasks should get your full attention until you complete them. A simple rule I am training myself to follow is that if I'm waiting more than 10 seconds for something to complete, I'll go ahead and pick something up and let that first task wait on *me* instead of rushing back to it while I'm still in the middle of the second task. GREAT lesson!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you, Charlie! I appreciate the feedback.

[@jaybhushi2216]

Amazing Video...!!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

+Jay Bhushi Thank you!

[@mariamay5153]

Ahh it was so cool. I can see now when i was trying to second part time was same with first part quality was also same but stress.. It was really bad it drived me mad.. I can see my problem about studying my exams thank you too much... :)

[@riptheweed]

It was really awkward when he said do the exercise and all I did was continue watching.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Haha!

[@lyndagoodwyn7211]

Wow, the anxiety I felt the second time was crazy and yes, my time doubled! And here I was taking such pride in my switch tasking skills. LOL

[@DaveCrenshaw]

You're not alone, Lynda! This exercise opens many eyes to the reality of switch tasking. Take pride in your ability to focus and provide quality work instead. :)

[@jeffk5126]

21 sec / 31 sec. Quality did not decrease, but time and stress certainly went up. One other thing I noted, however, is that as the task went on, I was able to orient myself to the switching. S-1-w-2-i-3-t-4-c-5 all had considerable lag as I mentally re-oriented. By the time I got to t-17-h-18-i-19-e-20-f-21, I was able to flow much more rapidly back and forth. I may not have been *as* fast as straight task completion, but it was pretty close, especially compared to the beginning of the exercise. I hypothesize that my brain had started to orient this into one task rather than two separate tasks that I was trying to switch between.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Interesting conclusion, Jeff. Either way, there's always a cost to switchtasking and best to avoid whenever possible. Thanks for sharing your results!

[@michaelmohr9182]

The more difficult thing is when you start a task, and then it causes you some downtime, that is, you must wait for something. If that “wait” time is short, then clearly it is better to stay focused on you current task. If that “wait” time is long, then clearly it is better to do something else while you wait. The problem is determining what is the limit where Short and Long waits, meet. If you have to wait 10 seconds for a report to run, or a page to load, or a program to run, then clearly staying “on-task” is clearly better. But, if you have to wait an hour, then clearly switching to another task is the appropriate thing to do. It seems to me that finding that break-even point is the most difficult thing. And I think it may change from task to task, and from day to day.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

That's correct, Michael. That would be background-tasking in your second example for the longer wait.

[@tinabeana4495]

People are saying their hand writing got worse, while mine actually got better. I had to concentrate a lot more, so I was more cautious with how I was writing. Original time was 25 seconds, second go was 36. I used graph paper instead of lines, idk if that has any effect.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for sharing, Tina! Bad handwriting may not be the cost for everyone. Time always is though.

[@lashondaroberson5483]

Spot on!!!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you, Lashonda!

[@sharonstern2353]

21/50 Thanks for making things clear.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

You're welcome, Sharon! Thanks for trying the exercise out.

[@Sam-dc9bg]

Excellent example. I have noticed a few people are really good at doing multiple things at once. I however, am not. I am unable to listen to music and learn a new skill. However, I can listen to music while doing simple routine work that I don't even have to think about.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

The music vs no-music is an interesting workplace issue, Sam. I find roughly half of people are negatively affected by music while working/learning, while the other half are motivated by it. It's why I recommend offices allow people to listen to music on headphones, but not play it out loud for all to hear.

[@icecubemaker4002]

The only reason I was slower, was because my hand had to move a lot more. I didn't make any mistakes. I've got full or nearly full score on all divided attention tests until now, apparently that's not normal.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Sometimes the cost of switching is quality of work, and sometimes the cost is your time by taking longer to complete the tasks. Both of these costs are valuable and can be avoided if we simply focus on one active task at a time.

[@midnightsaucery]

Amazing, it took me 21 seconds for the first task and 35 for the second, my stress levels increased as I felt panic rising during the second task, the odd thing that happened with the quality of my writing, is the first task was messy and all over the place, I didn't leave enough space to write the numbers, the second was far tidier and I managed to fit everything in, no idea why that happened.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Everyone has a slightly different reaction to the stress of the second half. I would venture to say you were trying to focus harder the second time, allowing your handwriting to be neater, yet you still didn't finish faster. Interesting! Thanks for sharing, Sally.

[@rubinturner8233]

The first time I was okay, but I started a bit earlier. The second time I didn't do so well. I didn't complete the exercise i got to 10 and the word switchtask.

[@MyThoughtzAndOpinionz]

I wrote the same number twice, two times, and I misspelled switchtasking. 15 seconds vs 50 Seconds

[@steffanierauscher9455]

I was pretty sure the increased time was happening and I was beginning to see poor quality, but I had know idea the stress it was adding. The email popups are being turned off today. I need to set specific time to deal with the email. Thanks!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

That's great to hear, Steffanie!

[@reedfagan8330]

My class says they want to focus on doing a task BETTER than the day before, and are not going to let phones and laptops distract them. WOOT!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Now that's exciting, Reed!

[@reedfagan8330]

Our Robotics class is going to prioritize and plan tasks according to personal preference so as to finish one task first before moving on to another. Woo-woo!

[@reedfagan8330]

In our Edgenuity class, to avoid switchtasking we are going to focus on getting the work done first and relaxing later.

[@reedfagan8330]

In our IED2 class we will avoid devices unless instructed.

[@reedfagan8330]

Our POE class is going to remove the distraction from their immediate vicinity and focus on the task at hand

[@beurisreshkirk1275]

You should do a sit-along in a busy 911 Communications Center and watch what happens. We can write numbers and letters all day long like this video shows but this proves nothing. Try disseminating information from a hysterical caller that is reporting an active shooter situation, typing everything with accuracy into your CAD system, while listening to incoming radio traffic from a multitude of agencies responding to the crisis. Oh, and you also have to log information given to you by field units. Plus, you also have to constantly mute your phone and provide status updates to field units when each caller gives you new information related to the incident. Most Police Officers will hit retirement with an agency where as the average tenure for an Emergency Dispatcher is 2-3 years and there is a reason why.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you for your service in an extremely stressful job few of us would be willing to take! I believe your comment proves the point. Switchtasking always makes things harder. For some jobs it's necessary. The point of this video is--necessary or not--switchtasking always causes things to take longer, increases the likelihood of mistakes, and increases stress levels.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Just an update: Please see this video post regarding a similar question: davecrenshaw.com/911-multitasking/

[@jonathanpittam435]

I can see how background tasking can result in getting more done, as long as one task is mundane, e.g.: Ironing whilst watching the tv, but I guess in terms of anything that requires depth of focus doing multiple tasks isn't achievable if quality and peace of mind are our aim. Mindlessness versus mindfulness...

[@DaveCrenshaw]

You got the point, Jonathan. What I really want people to take away from this is to simply ask themselves the question: Am I background tasking, or am I switchtasking? If it's the former, then you can find time gains. If it's the later, then you will always pay a high price.

[@Zumaray]

Hi Dave, enjoyed the video. Multiple tasking and multiple inputs is a study and passion of mine. You mentioned that with business practice you should avoid switch tasking. Unfortunately my career in Air Traffic Control involves doing this whether you want to or not. I am now an Air Traffic Control instructor and really get disappointed when I cannot help someone improve their ability to switchtask or handle multiple inputs. Have you done any research or have any material or recommend anything that may help someone to be able to do this? So far I have looked at efficiency of task, intuitive learning, short memory.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for the question, yeoclegin. My job is certainly to help people avoid switches as much as humanly possible. Yet I recognize that some jobs have a high need for switching (and thus are very stressful). My book is "The Myth of Multitasking." Oddly enough there is another book with a similar title geared just toward Flight Operations. See: The Multitasking Myth: Handling Complexity in Real-World Operations (Ashgate Studies in Human Factors for Flight Operations)

[@Zumaray]

+Dave Crenshaw thanks I'll have a look.

[@Hoch134]

I like the self-experiment a lot and can agree to your results, but I am wondering if this also affects impressions like given from music? Would hearing music decrease your driving skills? Or would it only affect similar activities like for example writign or reading (receive outer impressions to memorize them like happening in music)?

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hoch134 It depends upon the person. For some, music is switchtasking becasue it is too attention-grabbing. . For others, music is background tasking, because it doesn't pull much attention.

[@Hoch134]

Dave Crenshaw So I guess, it also depends on the type of music? I found, that I can't work when I hear music in my language. Makes snese actually, as your brain is working a task which is very similar to the comprehension of a song.

[@REHAB577]

you,r right

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thank you for commenting!

[@NJelBoi]

It took me about 5 seconds longer to complete it the second time, but the quality of my letters suffered. I ended up having to short-hand the letters to get to the number quickly.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

That's usually the case with multitasking, or switchtasking as I like to say. Either our time or quality of work suffers, and sometimes even both. It's not the effective skill we are all led to believe in!

[@jofisha]

So your test is to ask people to do one easy task, then to rush to try to do a more difficult task in the same amount of time? what does that have to do with performing two tasks at once? A smart and creative person finds a way to do multiple tasks in a shorter timeframe.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hi, jofisha. That's not quite accurate, as the second half of the exercise is asking you to do complete two simple tasks simultaneously, which is what multitasking is by definition. In turn, because our brains are not capable of doing two active tasks at the exact same time, we switch between them rapidly. This creates a cost in the form of lost time, mistakes, and increased levels of stress. No matter how smart or creative a person is, the human mind isn't capable of truly multitasking. Even a computer is not capable, it just switches more effectively and at a faster rate than we're capable of doing. There's more of an explanation in my book at multitaskbook.com.

[@justinwong5869]

It takes more time to move your hand across the rows when doing the 2nd one

[@DaveCrenshaw]

That's true. And physical switching cost has a price to be paid. Yet even if you subtracted the physical cost (which is about 5 seconds at most), the mental switching cost is often far more expensive, usually 3-5x that cost. Also, don't forget that time is not the only cost. There is also a significant increase in mistakes made and stress levels.

[@ArthasHastingsMenethil]

one thing I wished was getting a new PC so I can practice mutiltasking by playing video games

[@Col316Sing]

Strangely enough, my second attempt [switch tasking] was far neater than the other probably because I wrote in a lazy cursive the first time. However, It did take me a lot longer to do it because I was being so careful to get it right.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

That's the thing, we either lose time or quality when we multitask. Either way, we lose something, which is what I call a switch cost. When you focus on one task, you have the ability to provide the best quality in the least amount of time! Win-win!

[@janetanderson5077]

It took me 20 seconds longer. I did make mistakes, and the stress was higher. I'd prefer not to multi-task however, there are times when people demand it or, demand that you switchtask repeatedly.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

You're right, Janet. Sometimes it is out of your control, but I find that usually, we have more control than we think we do. I suggest trying to reduce the use of multitasking as much as reasonably possible...and maybe finding a way to share my message with your management. ;-)

[@KeithRobTV]

Wow...no wonder I can’t get shit done lol I’m going to avoid writing songs and doing the business end all in one day. Thanks!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Try scheduling blocks of time for both, rather than trying to juggle them back and forth. Thanks for commenting!

[@othmaz]

Background tasking?.. Well whatever its called, thats how i roll

[@DaveCrenshaw]

+othmaz Keep on rollin, then!

[@briannamulrooney43]

Anyone else almost loose their mind, so they had to pause the video?? No? Just me? ok.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

That's the increased stress at work ;) You're definitely NOT alone with feeling that way.

[@MelvinChristian]

so what would be your definition for multitasking?

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hi, Chris, thanks for the comment! The definition comes in two parts, and I use two different words rather than saying multitasking. Switchtasking, which is what most of us think of when we say multitasking, is the act of switching rapidly between two tasks that require your active attention. An example would be typing an email and trying to have a phone conversation at the same time. It's not efficient! The other part of the definition is "background-tasking," and it simply means to do an active task while another task is taking place automatically. An example of this would be listening to music while you go for a run, or working on a project while the printer processes a big print job. I hope that helps!

[@JeffreyBenjamin]

Dave, looking forward to seeing you in Reno at the Associated General Contractors Presidents Lunch. I will be graduating the 2015 Leadership Class during the luncheon. Excited to have graduates hear your message! Here is a video of last years graduates: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJvXYqecjbynm68

[@DaveCrenshaw]

I look forward to seeing you there, Jeffrey!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Regarding driving while multitasking, I posted a comment below, and felt the need to re-post here in an effect to save a life or prevent an accident or two: Driving while talking on the phone, even with a hands-free device, is essentially as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. This has been demonstrated numerous times through various academic studies. See www.ksl.com/?nid=148%sid=29867345 and www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95702512 for just a couple of round-up articles. Folks: it's one thing to choose to multitask in the safety of your office or home. There, you can at your leisure pay the three costs that I mention in this video. Yet the moment you start to do it on the road, whether with a hand-free, holding your mobile to your face, or, heaven forbid, texting, you are now putting lives at risk. Stop. Hang up. Turn it off, wait until you reach your destination. Or, if it's urgent, pull over to the side of the road, and focus on the call. Please.

[@ajproart2]

Makeup! a big no nO NO! while driving lol I understood this like a decade ago but didn't know how to prove it so easily to those who said they could multitask. Your test is simple but yet so awesome lol

[@israelolayemi2726]

I found the first task a little tedious,but the second was even more tedious.

[@traeye3227]

My teacher is making me do this for a digital learning day assignment

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hi, Traeye, I hope you gain some helpful insight from the assignment. Thanks for commenting!

[@liyastellajohn1990]

In my opinion multitasking is like doing many things together at the same time, like writing 2 languages or letters with both hands, at the same time listening to music or attending a call or driving while your eyes are scanning the road, reading signs, putting breaks, controlling steering wheel etc(or is it background tasking? did you invented that term? )in this video you're only switching between tasks, not doing at the same time. both are different right? just a doubt.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for the comment, Liya. The primary bottleneck to productivity isn't in your hands, eyes, or ears; it's in your brain. Your brain is only able to focus on one active task at a time. Tasks that do not require attention (such as listening to music while driving --- the listening is passive, the driving is active) can occur in the background. Multitasking is an inaccurate and confusing word to describe what is happening. Not even computers truly multitask: they just switch rapidly between tasks. Our brains are the same, and the switching - regardless of the type of task - has a cost. This is why I offered two alternative words in my book "The Myth of Multitasking." Instead, think in terms of either "switchtasking" or "background tasking." See my definitions in the comment and video notes above. But if you try to drive and talk on the phone at the same time, even with a hands free device, it is as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. Why? Switching costs. We simulated those switching costs in this example. Far more complex studies on the very example I just mentioned (driving and talking on the phone) have been conducted by multiple universities (University of Utah in particular) with essentially the same result as you experience in this simplified activity. So, the question to ask yourself is, for any example you can create: is it switchtasking or is it background tasking? If it's switchtasking, there will ALWAYS be switching costs incurred, regardless of how effective you are at it, and regardless of the body parts being used. However, if it's background tasking, then you can be productive, simply because one of them isn't really requiring your attention. The problem is: when most people say the word "multitasking" they are really referring to switchtasking, and that is always the less productive than focusing on one thing at a time. Hope that helps! P.S. If you find someone who can write effectively in two different languages with each hand simultaneously, send me a video! That sounds superhuman to me! =D

[@liyastellajohn1990]

Dave Crenshaw, sir I was talking about myself, I can write two different letters or language at the same time with both hands. try this experiment - sit on a chair extend one of your hand and leg, with your hand draw a circle in the air in clockwise direction, and with the leg draw a 6 (anticlockwise ) or hold both your hands against your head with index fingers pointing your temple area (like holding a pistol against your temple ) now rotate one of your index finger in clockwise and the other in anticlockwise direction. can you do it? well, I can. maybe some people can multi task, while others can't without enough practice an average woman can effectively do a lot of activities at the same time, like cooking a variety of dishes, caring her baby and husband. it's not a tedious task for us because we are used to it. and this switch tasking is a lot of time saving than doing any one thing at a time. you can ask your wife if you doubt. so switch tasking is effective once we train our brain. in your experiment you are comparing something people always do against a new task. it's not a good comparison. do one thing, do your switch tasking exercise atleast 10 times a day and compare after a week. you will definitely see the improvement in switching speed. still it's not a good comparison as you are comparing something against what we've been doing all our lives. in my opinion our brain is having great potential, so all we need is to train it effectively. switch tasking or multitasking whatever you call it, will need time to perfect like learning a new musical instrument or language, but once you acquire that skill switch tasking will become very productive. hope you will reconsider your views about the video you asked me to do -I'm a doctor and I'm a little busy now a days, I will try to do when I get free time

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hi, Liya. It appears there is a language barrier here, so I'll try to keep my replies brief. First, if you're truly interested in learning more, read my book, "The Myth of Multitasking." It's been published in six languages. Read the bibliography of my book if you want to read the hard science to back up these assertions. I'm not the scientist, just the evangelist. I'm demonstrating that we will do better if we improve our focus, rather than try to fragment it further. Check it out from a library if you don't want to buy it. Yes, we can train ourselves to get better at switchtasking, and yes sometimes it is necessary (911 operators are a notable example). However, it is always far, far more efficient to perform one task at a time, whenever possible. The first example you described is parlor trick with little productive value; it's like rubbing your head and patting your tummy. Instead, try to write a 100-word email with your hands while dictating a DIFFERENT 100-word letter with your mouth. You'll immediately experience the limitation of your brain when it comes to switchtasking. We are not limited by genetics or gender, but just biology and math. The idea that women can multitask and men cannot is a myth. Both men and women, both the old and the young, incur varying degrees of switching costs. I've privately coached many female (and male) executives and can tell you from 20 years of field experience that when they stop trying to switchtask and start trying to focus, they get more done, in a shorter amount of time, with fewer mistakes, and with stronger relationships. incidentally, my amazing wife is a mother of three, and completely agrees with the science. Bottom line: it's more productive to work on developing focus, rather than trying to become more efficient at being unfocused. I'm advocating that we put our effort where we'll gain the most.

[@carloalbertohung4057]

This exercise is interesting, however it is a bit misleading. Indeed, in the second exercise, the waste of time is mostly due to repeated motion between the two lines, even if it simulates what actually may be happening in the brain!

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Due to time constraints, the exercise had to be kept very simple. Your comment still further proves the validity of the exercise though, by saying "due to repeated motion between two lines..." as that action is still switch tasking. The act of switching between the two lines costs you time and quality, which is the definition of switchtasking (aka multitasking). Thanks!

[@TheSkepticSkwerl]

If my job was to write papers, switching between them at rapid pace would be bad. But my job involves setting and forgetting systems, or looking at one system to know what job is due, and going to another to do it. all while sometimes googling help. Multitasking is a necessary part of some jobs, and there are no ways around that. e.g. i have to install antivirus on 47 computers. if i run the program from the disc it takes 5 mins. if i copy the program from the disc... that takes 3 mins then i take the disc out and start copying on the second computer, while thats copying, i start running on the first computer. so now it is taking me 3 mins a computer. and i have to walk back to the beginning and click finish on each computer. but for 47 computers it saved me atleast 1 hour. if not 2. It depends on the issue at hand, and the software you are using, now albeit the computer is doing the true multitasking, and i am just switchtasking... but it is necessary in some jobs.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

TheSkepticSkwerl I don't see anything in what you said that disputes the video. You in fact, agreed with it, as everything you described is better described as background tasking. The problem is, "multitasking" is an inaccurate word, and was so from the moment of it's creation, and creates confusion. From webopedia, emphasis added: "In multitasking, only one CPU is involved, but it switches from one program to another so quickly that it GIVES THE APPEARANCE of executing all of the programs at the same time."

[@mohammadzamil1823]

I have obe heart in my chest,not two so I can focus attention on one task,not two or more.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Very well said, Mohammad. Thank you!

[@wellokaythen1164]

My difference was 40 to 42 so not much of a difference.

[@alenahulickova5334]

I seem to be pretty good in switchtasking ... (hodila jsem tu větu do překladače, abych se v angličtině neztrapnila, a ejhle: Zdá se mi, že jsem v přechodu.) Tak tím to asi bude...

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hi Alena. I've found the results are skewed when someone is not a natve english speaker and tries this. I suggest trying the test again, using a phrase in your native language. Even just copying your alphabet will work.

[@alenahulickova5334]

Dave Crenshaw I'll try to explain. To check my reaction before posting, I have looked into the translator. The czech translation of "I seem to be pretty good in switchtasking" was something like "I seem to be in climacterium" 😁 Pardon...

[@alenahulickova5334]

Dave Crenshaw And yes, I will test it on czech. My english is obviously not very good...

[@andrearosario8512]

im multitasking while watching this. i have a severe problem.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

You will probably enjoy my book, The Myth of Multitasking, which can be found at multitaskbook.com. It offers actionable, easy tips for breaking this habit.

[@subinTravelchannel]

This is not a practical example. In real life by meaning Multi tasking, people are doing another task in between one task, if current task is not enough to fill full brain capacity. If current task is so instantaneous and continuously can get input for an output, and using full brain capacity, doing that alone is better, but in all other cases multitasking can play good role, for saving time, avoiding boring while doing same task, and also the capability switch between areas of brain. Also brain get trained to take more capabilities. A good driver, footballer, fighter, musician a expecially a drummer,even a ruler etc.. etc would be super multitasker, to whom their multi tasking ability is playing the major role.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hi there, thanks for commenting! When you say, “A good driver, footballer, fighter, musician a especially a drummer,even a ruler etc.. etc would be super multitasker, to whom their multi tasking ability is playing the major role," you are describing what I call "background tasking." Multitasking is a pesky and unfortunate word that creates a lot of confusion because it's not accurately describing a complex mental process. In reality, when people think they are multitasking, they are either doing one of two things: "switchtasking" or "background tasking." Please see my definitions for "background tasking" and "switchtasking" in the video notes and in the top comment. Background tasking is efficient. Switchtasking is not. My intention with this exercise is to teach people to focus on one active task at a time and avoid switchtasking. Active tasks are what you described when you said, “If current task is so instantaneous and continuously can get input for an output, and using full brain capacity, doing that alone is better.” It looks like you're also encouraging people to avoid switchtasking, which means we are on the same page. Thanks!

[@MickeyMouse2543]

That was really easy......

[@kidflash0208]

Can you summarise the video for me

[@kidflash0208]

So i can explain it easier to my teacher

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Hi, Jeremy. As someone who makes a living helping others learn and grow, I wouldn't dare rob you of the growth that you'd gain by doing it yourself. ;-) It's a short video, and I'm sure you'll do a great job. If you want to summarize and post here, I'll be glad to give you feedback on what you come up with.

[@JayReimer5]

As a teacher I REALLY appreciate this response Dave!

[@FOURJUANTWO]

HI MEAGHAN ;)

[@loganstephens9505]

Not even

[@Ljokerz]

this dosent seem right. you cant multitask by requiring you hand to right 2 likes at ones to me multitasking is like playing video game and watching a movie or tv show. if i where to make your experiment into what i do i would have to play a video game while righting a tweet or text. the thing i im already using my hands to game .

[@DaveCrenshaw]

+Mathieu Morin (Ljokerz) Thanks for the comment. Please read my definition about background tasking vs. switchtasking, above. Thanks! The question isn't whether this is multitasking (which has been proven by hundreds of research studies to not exist). The questions is, "Is this switchtasking, or is this background tasking?"

[@Ljokerz]

+Dave Crenshaw yes i have read the definition but who says that is right ? if i can text and ride a bike paly online games and watch TV as long as im doing 2 or more different things at the same time what would you call that ? like i said you really try to divert the subject " Switchtasking " if your really actually switching things like talking to 3 friends on facebook then you really have to switch. it only becomes multitasking when you do sum thing involving a motor skill that is not already in use. and as for "Background tasking" the definition is really similar to multitasking so why change it ? to trt and get more views ? or just because you wanted to be different? im just saying im not convince, defiantly not with the research i did.

[@Ljokerz]

+subtenko you guys dont understand what multitasking really is. im not talking about doing the same thing twines or 20 times at the same time im talking about totally different scenarios. yes it is impossible to text 8 people at once, yes you could never jump 2 times at the same time, and yes you can never Ever ever run a 3 legged race alone. but thats totaly not my point. im saying you can eat a banana and talk on the phone that is mutytasking. you can Liston to some one ranting and eat a banana MULTITASK. i guess i could try and fight your side and say you could eat 2 bananas at the same time like wtf m8 lol Multitasking is a thing ............ silly

[@AndreyRahimov]

the thing you talk about is multitasking, what we can not do is "multifocusing" i.e. concentrate on two things at the same time and this what this guy doing the accent on.

[@peterchen2726]

I thought writing numbers after writing letters was the switchtask :(

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Yes, it is demonstrating how switchtasking affects your productivity.

[@user-we1ov5kq4f]

27 seconds to 37 seconds My handwriting became so bad lol

[@DaveCrenshaw]

It's an eye-opening little experiment, isn't it?

[@user-we1ov5kq4f]

@@DaveCrenshaw Definitely. I noticed that I have switchtasking problem due to my short attention span. I have nothing to do with it ☹

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Don't feel bad, we all struggle with switchtasking to some degree. That is why I strongly encourage you not to do it and instead, focus on one task at a time.

[@CzechRiot]

Multitasking in this way is a misconception of the idea. You can do different things at once, that's how we live anyway. Driving is multitasking, your foot is doing one thins the other another, your eyes are watching several things, you may be talking to someone at the same time, etc. People who play guitar and sing are multitasking. Obviously you cannot FOCUS your conscious mind in several different things at once, as for example, trying to read two sets of text at once, or play guitar at the same time you juggle bottles, or do complex math in your head while you make a public speech. But multitasking is actually performing different "missions" interchangeably, like cooking while the clothes are in the washing machine, then washing dishes while the food is baking in the oven and the clothes are in the dryer, while you talk on the phone with someone else. You are then performing "several tasks" or several jobs at once, in the sense you are the responsible for the execution and completion of these tasks or "missions".

[@DaveCrenshaw]

Thanks for your perspective, CzechRoit. As I read your response, I believe what your saying reinforces my point. "Multitasking" is a confusing and inaccurate word from the start. It means too many different things to too many different people. This is why I advocate using either "switchtasking" or "background tasking." Please see my definitions in the comments section and the video description.

[@p.g.reitsma7245]

I just had a conversation about multitasking, or the myth of multitasking today while grocery shopping. I attempted to talk and listen while picking items off the shelf and get them into the basket. It didn't go well. That's why I shop alone.

[@tempfan5547]

but ur talking about a whole different kind of task. tasks that are done as habits that doesnt require thinking. like walking, eating a hot dog and talking on the phone at the same time. just like driving we do so often that we dont need to think. instead of making something positive about it ur just trying to be a smart ass about the word...it is well proven that multi tasking is to avoid.

[@abhistaxiablack1537]

but while writing we uses eyes , fingers for holding pencil or pen , thinking, breathing, listening time count down like we did for this video. multi tasking

[@goggiaca]

I am also a trainer who facilitates a "Multi-Tasking" training, and, like Dave, share concept it is a myth. The above examples engage several functions with a focus on THE SAME GOAL. Another good example is musicians who play drums and sing. It can seem like they are doing lots of different things (feet, hands, voice) but the mind only has to focus on the one goal. Attempting to shift focus from one task to another requires the brain to try and focus on multiple goals at one time. The number of auto accidents caused by people texting while driving is one of my favorite examples to share related to our misconception of being able to focus on more than one thing at a time. Good discussion!

[@NikeMikey101]

Adderall problem solved

[@bluedog1724]

Multitasking is easy I can be on my phone and my tv at the same time 😏

[@ajproart2]

lol you are missing some content from tv and delaying your operations on your phone that can take less time if your tv was off. Maybe something like pooping while eating at the same time

[@ShyamSundars94]

Your video is redundant because what you are saying is intuitive.

[@DaveCrenshaw]

+Shyam Sundar Respectfully, I disagree. What you really mean is: it's intuitive to you. For most, it is not. Common sense (or intuition) is the result of repeated life experience. See: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2Orkpibbbyah8k

[@ShyamSundars94]

Maybe you're right.

[@papercore.2004]

I did this pretty fast, just it is sloppy ass handwriting

[@sydoz1956]

as a single mother and business owner I respectfully disagree