Cognitive surplus refers to the collective time and skills that people have available to contribute to projects and activities beyond their daily responsibilities. This concept highlights how individuals can use their free time, often enhanced by technology, to collaborate and create valuable content or solutions. The term was popularized by Clay Shirky, who noted that the rise of the internet and social media has enabled large groups of people to share their knowledge and creativity. This surplus can lead to innovations, community projects, and shared resources, transforming how we engage with information and each other.