Task switching
TopicHeard in 2 episodes across 2 shows since Jul 2026
Task switching, or set-shifting, is an executive function that involves the ability to unconsciously shift attention between one task and another. It is closely related to cognitive shifting, which involves conscious changes in attention, and both serve as subcategories of the broader concept of cognitive flexibility. Research in this area often focuses on the cognitive costs, such as switch costs, associated with transitioning between different mental processes.
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| Month | Episodes |
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| Nov 2025 | 0 |
| Dec 2025 | 0 |
| Jan 2026 | 0 |
| Feb 2026 | 0 |
| Mar 2026 | 0 |
| Apr 2026 | 0 |
| May 2026 | 0 |
| Jun 2026 | 0 |
| Jul 2026 | 1 |
| Aug 2026 | 1 |
| Sep 2026 | 0 |
| Oct 2026 | 0 |
What experts have said about Task switching
2 statements · 2 negative
Switching between tasks imposes a measurable cognitive cost.
“there's always a switching cost, which shows you that switch switching is hard for some reason.”
Open the episode · Neuroscience of Emotions & Tools for Improving Emotion Regulation | Dr. Ralph AdolphsListen at 1:54:59
More daily task switching lowers productivity and raises stress.
“The more switches someone does a day, the lower their end of day productivity and the higher their end of day stress.”
Open the episode · Why You Feel Overwhelmed All The Time (and how to fix it) - David Epstein - #1121Listen at 1:01:51
Statements are attributed to the speaker as said on the episode and reflect their view at the time, not PodLume's. They are not advice.
Episodes
2 episodes featuring Task switching, newest first