Extraneous cognitive load refers to the unnecessary mental effort that can hinder learning and understanding. This type of load arises from poorly designed instructional materials or irrelevant information that distracts learners from the main content. For example, if a lesson on photosynthesis includes excessive animations or unrelated facts, students may struggle to grasp the core concepts. Reducing extraneous cognitive load is essential for effective learning. Educators can achieve this by simplifying presentations, using clear visuals, and focusing on relevant information. By minimizing distractions, learners can allocate more cognitive resources to understanding and retaining the material, ultimately enhancing their educational experience.