Tag Archives: multitasking

Curation Corner: Can/should writers multitask? A verdict.

I couldn’t help myself. This image just spoke to the ‘task-switcher’ in me.

First off, my posting this is the epitome of multitasking, as I was in the middle of a search for online images for another project. I guess that makes me as qualified as anybody to post this. (Further proof of my qualifications: Dating back a couple of weeks, I have three separate posts in draft mode.)

Sadie Chelsea of thehonestwriter.org breaks down the issue for us here.

Is Multitasking Helpful or Harmful to Writers?

One thought: Sadie’s post claims “Multitasking can even impair cognitive ability…” For me, that’s assuming I have any left.

Another thought: There are some mindless tasks that can be accomplished while, say, exerbiking or with the TV on. Granted, it may well erode that cognitive ability discussed above.

A third thought: I’ve run out of cognitive ability for the moment. Time to click ‘publish’.

Writers Horoscope August 14: You overestimate your mental capabilities.

Enough with the multitasking already! It doesn’t even exist. And what you are doing (current terminology: context switching) is stealing brainpower.

Consider these drawbacks:

  • You have a lower IQ. [This would explain your predilection for Dora the Explorer reruns to finishing that chapter from John Gardner’s The Art of Fiction.]
  • You reduce your memory. [Uhhhh…you’re on this page because you clicked a web link to get here. ;->]
  • You damage your brain. [Listen, your teens and 20’s are ruthless enough. No sense piling on.]

woman-multitasking-covering face

Photo courtesy of Pixabay.