These days, smartphones feel like extra limbs and an extension of the body, and messages pop up every few seconds. Many students proudly feel they are masters in the art of multitasking. Therefore, they are juggling between chatting with friends via fm whatsapp and other apps and solving math problems, or also begin to scroll through memes while watching lectures. But is this truly effective? Can students really multitask, or is it down to their performance?
Concept of Multitasking
Multitasking is the act of performing multiple tasks simultaneously. For example, sending text messages with a friend while doing homework or watching movies on Netflix during an online class.
Explore Types of Multitasking
Concurrent Multitasking
It means to handle two words at once, e.g., texting while making notes.
Sequential Multitasking:
On the flip side, when you switch back and forth between tasks rapidly, like solving a question, replying to a message, then going back is called sequential multitasking
But here is a twist: our human brain is shaped to tackle numerous tasks at the same time but it requires the same attention.
What does Neuroscience say about Multitasking
Stanford University has done research, and the American Psychological Association shows that the brain will suffer if someone tries to do two cognitive tasks at once. Each pulls attention, which will reduce overall performance.
Key findings:
- Multitasking can diminish productivity by up to 40%
- It also enhances the time required to complete tasks.
- It leads to more mistakes, especially in learning environments.
Impact of Chatting While Studying
One of the most common distractions is instant messaging. Whether it’s on WhatsApp, Snapchat, or Instagram, notifications disrupt the main focus on study.
Divided Attention:
Constantly checking the split focus on the actual study material. It will lose your ability to understand things effectively.
Lower Attention:
The brain needs more energy to properly encode information.
Reduced Comprehension:
While performing different functions simultaneously, it will shift your focus and will drain your cognitive energy, which will tired your brain.
Higher Stress and Anxiety:
The pressure to keep up with messages and study simultaneously will create anxiety.
A study by the University of Connecticut highlights that students who texted while studying scored 20% lower on memory tests than those who gave full attention to their work.
The Truth behind a Good Multitasker
Some students say confidently that they can manage both chatting and studying without any distraction. However, research suggests that people who believe they are skilled at multitasking are least effective.
According to Dr. Clifford Nass of Stanford University, “Heavy multitaskers are lousy at filtering out irrelevant information. They’re distracted by everything.”
Long-term Impact on Learning and Mental Health
Multitasking not only affects short-term learning,g but its consequences can linger far beyond the study session
Academic Study Suffers:
When students frequently divide their attention between studying, their grades tend to drop.
Superficial Learning
Multitasking encourages Students to work smart and thoughtfully. But consistent interruptions make it difficult to score high on tests.
Mental Fatigue
Constantly jumping can result in burnout and decreased motivation, and also reduce the quality.
Sleep Disruption
Late-night screen time and delayed sleep will tire your brain which can reduce your ability.
Smart Strategies to Minimize Distractions While Studying
If you’re truly committed to learning, you’ll want to minimize interruptions.
- According to the Pomodoro technique, you can study for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break to relax.
- Turn off notifications or switch off your mobile while studying
- Schedule a specific time to check messages.
- Keep your phone away from your books and out of mind.
- Using productivity apps like Forest, Cold Turkey, and Freedom can help block sticky ads
Final verdict: The Hard Truth
Multitasking while studying, especially chatting, is largely a productivity killer. While it may feel like you’re getting more done, science shows otherwise. For meaningful learning and long-term success, it’s better to give your full attention to one task at a time. Your brain and your grades will thank you.
