Cognitive Load

The amount of information flowing into our working memory at any given moment.

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Key Insights & Principles

Decision Making

1. Complexity increases cognitive load.
2. Cognitive load increases the likelihood of errors in decision making.
3. High cognitive load makes people more likely to accept default options.

1. Do not try to remember too much: make a checklist or cheat sheet to reduce cognitive load.
2. Simplify.

Personal Growth & Productivity

1. Multitasking significantly increases cognitive load.
2. High cognitive load inhibits our ability to learn and retain new information.
3. High cognitive load amplifies distractions.
4. Habits reduce cognitive load, as they are acts of the non-conscious mind, freeing up mental capacity for other tasks.

1. Build habits.
2. Focus on one thing at a time.

Book References