On Task

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Why is it challenging to text and drive simultaneously? How do we resist that extra piece of cake? Why does filling out a tax form feel so taxing? From simple tasks like making coffee to significant decisions like buying a house, humans excel at executing necessary actions. But how do our brains manage this? In this work, cognitive neuroscientist David Badre introduces the neuroscience of cognitive control—how our brains orchestrate complex actions to achieve our goals. Often overlooked, cognitive control, or executive function, significantly influences our well-being. Drawing on cutting-edge research, clinical case studies, and everyday examples, Badre explores the evolution and mechanisms of cognitive control. He addresses topics such as multitasking, willpower, habitual errors, and decision-making, as well as the development of cognitive control in childhood and its changes with aging. He also discusses the consequences when cognitive control falters. Ultimately, Badre demonstrates that cognitive control impacts nearly every aspect of our lives. This insightful exploration reveals how billions of neurons work together to transform abstract concepts into actionable plans, offering a profound understanding of the brain's essential role in shaping human behavior.