Single-Tasking

Overview

Multitasking drops your IQ by 10 points. You aren't doing two things; you are doing two things badly.

Definition

Single-Tasking is doing one thing until completion. Multitasking is actually 'Rapid Task-Switching'.

The Science

Switch Cost

Switching consumes metabolic energy and time. It can eat 40% of productive time.

The Practice

Pomodoro Strict

1. Pick one task.
2. Set timer (25m).
3. Parking lot for stray thoughts.
4. Commit.

Common Pitfalls

• Background processing.
• 'Just a quick check'.

Key Takeaway

To do two things at once is to do neither.