Multi-Tasking and Legal Writing
Perspectives, Vol. 18, p. 7, Fall 2009
5 Pages Posted: 14 Jan 2010 Last revised: 14 Dec 2012
Date Written: Fall 2009
Abstract
This Article addresses the growing trend toward more and more multitasking and the effect it has on law students and lawyers, particularly their writing, learning, and analysis. It distinguishes between two types of multitasking – parallel processing and task switching – and explores when each increases or decreases efficiency. Using recent research on multitasking and the human brain, the Article reports on some of the early findings that suggest that habitual multitasking changes a person’s cognitive style and may diminish one’s capacity for focused, in-depth thinking. The Article concludes with some suggestions for monitoring and managing the multitasking habit
Keywords: multi-tasking, multitasking, legal writing, legal analysis, cognitive syle, focus, efficiency, digital literacy, distractions
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