Multitasking refers to the ability to perform multiple tasks or activities simultaneously or in quick succession. It is often seen in everyday life, such as when people talk on the phone while cooking or check emails while attending a meeting. While it may seem efficient, research shows that multitasking can reduce overall productivity and increase the likelihood of errors.
The brain has limitations when it comes to processing information, and switching between tasks can lead to cognitive overload. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as the cognitive cost of multitasking, where the time and mental effort required to shift focus can hinder performance on all tasks involved.