It feels productive. You're reading a chapter, replying to messages, checking notifications, and maybe even listening to music all at the same time. But here's the truth: multitasking and learning don’t mix well. In fact, trying to do many things at once can quietly pull down your academic performance without you even noticing.
Many students believe that multitasking saves time. It feels like you're getting more done. But research says otherwise. The brain doesn’t actually multitask the way we think it does. It switches quickly from one task to another. This constant switching uses up energy and reduces how much information you can store and understand.
One of the biggest problems with multitasking is reduced focus. When you’re studying with your phone buzzing beside you or while watching a video, your brain is splitting its attention. You might think you’re still reading, but your mind is missing key points. This means you’ll need more time to reread, revise, or understand later.
Another side effect is poor memory. Studies have shown that people who multitask often are more likely to forget what they’ve just learned. That’s because short-term memory, which helps you hold on to new information, gets overloaded. So if you’re preparing for a test or trying to understand a new topic, distractions make it harder for your brain to keep that knowledge.
Multitasking also slows down your speed. Yes, it may seem like you’re being efficient, but when you divide your attention, you make more mistakes and take longer to finish each task. A 30-minute topic can easily stretch into an hour if you’re pausing to check every ping or scroll through feeds.
It’s not just about gadgets. Even switching between different subjects too quickly can hurt your understanding. If you study science for 10 minutes, then jump to maths, then back again, your brain doesn’t get enough time to build proper connections. Deep learning needs focus and time.
So what’s the better approach?
Try monotasking. Focus on one subject or task at a time. Keep your phone on silent or in another room during study time. Use a timer—maybe 25 or 30 minutes of focused study followed by a short 5-minute break. This method trains your brain to concentrate and improves both speed and understanding.
Also, plan ahead. If you know you’ll be tempted to check something, give yourself time for it after your study session. Building this discipline takes practice, but it leads to real progress.
In the end, multitasking might feel fast, but it often leads to shallow learning. To really understand, remember, and apply what you study, give it your full attention. One thing at a time is not just a rule—it’s a smart way to learn better.
