What is *The Myth of Multitasking* by Dave Crenshaw about?

*The Myth of Multitasking* debunks the misconception that multitasking improves productivity. Dave Crenshaw argues that what people call multitasking is often harmful "switchtasking"—rapidly shifting focus between tasks, which increases errors, stress, and time spent. The book introduces solutions like prioritizing single-tasking and leveraging "background tasking" (combining mindful and automated tasks) to boost efficiency. Written as a business fable, it blends storytelling with practical time-management strategies.

Who should read *The Myth of Multitasking*?

This book is ideal for professionals, leaders, and students struggling with focus in distraction-heavy environments. It’s particularly relevant for ADHD individuals, as Crenshaw shares systems he developed to overcome his own "off-the-charts" ADHD diagnosis. Managers aiming to reduce workplace inefficiencies and anyone seeking data-backed methods to reclaim time will benefit.

Is *The Myth of Multitasking* worth reading?

Yes—it’s a quick, actionable read with global appeal, translated into eight languages and cited in TIME and BBC News. Crenshaw’s blend of humor, real-world examples, and exercises (like the switchtasking test) make complex productivity concepts accessible. Over 50,000 LinkedIn Learning students have applied its principles.

What are the main concepts in *The Myth of Multitasking*?

Key ideas include: - **Switchtasking**: Attempting simultaneous attention-heavy tasks, which incurs "switching costs" (time loss, errors, stress). - **Background tasking**: Pairing mindful tasks with automatic ones (e.g., exercising while listening to podcasts). - **Single-tasking prioritization**: Structuring workflows to minimize distractions and context-switching.

How does Dave Crenshaw define "switchtasking"?

Switchtasking occurs when you split focus between tasks requiring active attention, like texting during a meeting. Crenshaw’s exercise—timed writing while alternating sentences—proves it takes 20–40% longer versus single-tasking. This concept underpins the book’s argument that multitasking is a myth.

What practical exercises does the book include?

The **Myth of Multitasking Exercise** challenges readers to write two alternating sentences under timed conditions, revealing the inefficiency of switchtasking. A downloadable worksheet and video tutorial help readers apply this test personally and in teams.

How does *The Myth of Multitasking* compare to *Atomic Habits*?

While *Atomic Habits* focuses on behavior systems, Crenshaw’s book targets task-management mechanics. Both emphasize incremental changes, but *The Myth of Multitasking* specifically addresses workplace and tech-driven distractions. It’s a shorter, narrative-driven complement to broader habit-building guides.

What criticisms exist about *The Myth of Multitasking*?

Some reviewers note the business-novel format feels contrived, with an idealized consultant-client dynamic. Others argue it oversimplifies productivity challenges for neurodivergent individuals. However, most praise its actionable advice and relatable anecdotes.

The Myth of Multitasking Summary, PDF, EPUB, Audio

The Myth of Multitasking

Dave Crenshaw

3.81 (1312 Reviews)

Productivity Business Self-growth

概要

主なポイント

著者

よくある質問

Multitasking is killing your productivity. Dave Crenshaw's global bestseller, translated into eight languages, reveals why "switchtasking" wastes time and damages relationships. Even Chuck Norris agrees: it's a destructive myth. Ready to reclaim your focus and double your effectiveness?

あなたに合った学び方を探す

クイックサマリー9分

著者の声を通じて本を感じる

深堀り42分

知識を魅力的で例が豊富な洞察に変換

フラッシュカード9件の洞察

キーアイデアを瞬時にキャプチャして素早く学習

エンタメ21分

楽しく魅力的な方法で本を楽しむ

「The Myth of Multitasking」のベストクォート

When we give people partial attention, it makes them feel unimportant-like saying 'Hi, you're unimportant.'

あなたに合った学び方を探す

『The Myth of Multitasking』は単なる本ではありません—Productivityのマスタークラスです。あなたに最適な方法でレッスンを吸収できるよう、5つのユニークな学習モードを用意しています。深く考える人も、素早く学ぶ人も、物語が好きな人も、あなたのスタイルに合ったモードがあります。

クイックサマリー

『The Myth of Multitasking』を9分で要約

『The Myth of Multitasking』の核心的なアイデアを分かりやすいポイントに分解し、革新的なチームがどのように創造、協力、成長するかを理解します。

00:00

フラッシュカード

『The Myth of Multitasking』から厳選した9の洞察

『The Myth of Multitasking』を素早い記憶のヒントに凝縮し、率直さ、チームワーク、創造的な回復力の主要原則を強調します。

エンタメ

『The Myth of Multitasking』のレッスンを21分のストーリーで

鮮やかなストーリーテリングを通じて『The Myth of Multitasking』を体験し、イノベーションのレッスンを記憶に残り、応用できる瞬間に変えます。

00:00

パーソナライズ

あなた自身の方法で『The Myth of Multitasking』を体験。

何でも質問し、声を選び、本当にあなたに響く洞察を一緒に作り出しましょう。

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BeFreedは20万人以上の好奇心旺盛な仲間が集うグローバルコミュニティ

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"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

コロンビア大学卒業生がサンフランシスコで開発

BeFreedは20万人以上の好奇心旺盛な仲間が集うグローバルコミュニティ

BeFreedがウェブ上でどのように話題になっているかをもっと見る

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

今すぐ学習の旅を始めよう

この要約をダウンロード

The Myth of Multitaskingの要約をPDFまたはEPUBで無料でダウンロード。印刷やオフラインでいつでもお読みいただけます。

The Myth of Multitasking

Dave Crenshaw

3.81 (1312 Reviews)

Productivity Business Self-growth

概要

主なポイント

著者

よくある質問

あなたに合った学び方を探す

クイックサマリー9分

著者の声を通じて本を感じる

深堀り42分

知識を魅力的で例が豊富な洞察に変換

フラッシュカード9件の洞察

キーアイデアを瞬時にキャプチャして素早く学習

エンタメ21分

楽しく魅力的な方法で本を楽しむ

「The Myth of Multitasking」のベストクォート

When we give people partial attention, it makes them feel unimportant-like saying 'Hi, you're unimportant.'

重要なポイント

The Multitasking Myth: A Productivity Illusion Costing You Weeks

00:00

Picture yourself driving while texting, adjusting the radio, and eating lunch - suddenly traffic stops ahead. This scenario captures the central deception explored in "The Myth of Multitasking." What we proudly call multitasking is actually "switchtasking" - rapidly shifting attention between activities without fully focusing on any single one. Research shows heavy multitaskers are actually less productive than those who focus on one task at a time. True multitasking would mean performing two cognitively demanding tasks simultaneously with full attention - something our brains simply cannot do. Each mental switch requires our brains to reorient, recall context, and rebuild momentum. It's like constantly hitting a mental reset button throughout your day, creating significant friction with each transition. The real danger? Multitasking creates an illusion of productivity. We feel busy and engaged while switching between tasks with a false sense of accomplishment. However, studies show this type of task-switching reduces productivity by up to 40% and can temporarily lower IQ by 15 points. Even brief interruptions, like checking a text while working, can double your error rate.

The Hidden Cost: Time, Quality, and Relationships

The Computer Term That Hijacked Human Productivity

Proving the Cost: Demonstrations and Real-World Impact

Creating Predictable Access: The Power of "When"

The Reality Check: 168 Hours and Only One You

From Personal Change to Cultural Transformation

あなたに合った学び方を探す

クイックサマリー

『The Myth of Multitasking』を9分で要約

『The Myth of Multitasking』の核心的なアイデアを分かりやすいポイントに分解し、革新的なチームがどのように創造、協力、成長するかを理解します。

00:00

フラッシュカード

『The Myth of Multitasking』から厳選した9の洞察

『The Myth of Multitasking』を素早い記憶のヒントに凝縮し、率直さ、チームワーク、創造的な回復力の主要原則を強調します。

エンタメ

『The Myth of Multitasking』のレッスンを21分のストーリーで

鮮やかなストーリーテリングを通じて『The Myth of Multitasking』を体験し、イノベーションのレッスンを記憶に残り、応用できる瞬間に変えます。

00:00

パーソナライズ

あなた自身の方法で『The Myth of Multitasking』を体験。

何でも質問し、声を選び、本当にあなたに響く洞察を一緒に作り出しましょう。

コロンビア大学卒業生がサンフランシスコで開発

BeFreedは20万人以上の好奇心旺盛な仲間が集うグローバルコミュニティ

BeFreedがウェブ上でどのように話題になっているかをもっと見る

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

コロンビア大学卒業生がサンフランシスコで開発

BeFreedは20万人以上の好奇心旺盛な仲間が集うグローバルコミュニティ

BeFreedがウェブ上でどのように話題になっているかをもっと見る

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

今すぐ学習の旅を始めよう

この要約をダウンロード

The Myth of Multitaskingの要約をPDFまたはEPUBで無料でダウンロード。印刷やオフラインでいつでもお読みいただけます。

「The Myth of Multitasking」のベストクォート

「The Myth of Multitasking」のベストクォート

おすすめの本

重要なポイント

The Multitasking Myth: A Productivity Illusion Costing You Weeks

The Hidden Cost: Time, Quality, and Relationships

The Computer Term That Hijacked Human Productivity

Proving the Cost: Demonstrations and Real-World Impact

Creating Predictable Access: The Power of "When"

The Reality Check: 168 Hours and Only One You

From Personal Change to Cultural Transformation

おすすめの本

重要なポイント

The Multitasking Myth: A Productivity Illusion Costing You Weeks

The Hidden Cost: Time, Quality, and Relationships

The Computer Term That Hijacked Human Productivity

Proving the Cost: Demonstrations and Real-World Impact

Creating Predictable Access: The Power of "When"

The Reality Check: 168 Hours and Only One You

From Personal Change to Cultural Transformation

The Myth of Multitasking by Dave Crenshaw Summary

Overview of The Myth of Multitasking

Similar books to The Myth of Multitasking

「The Myth of Multitasking」のベストクォート

クイックサマリーモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』の要約を9分で読む・聴く

フラッシュカードモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』から厳選した9の洞察

エンタメモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』のレッスンを21分のストーリーで

パーソナライズモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』の要約を0分で読む・聴く

The Myth of MultitaskingのPDFをダウンロード

The Myth of MultitaskingのEPUBをダウンロード

The Myth of Multitasking by Dave Crenshaw Summary

Overview of The Myth of Multitasking

Similar books to The Myth of Multitasking

「The Myth of Multitasking」のベストクォート

おすすめの本

重要なポイント

The Multitasking Myth: A Productivity Illusion Costing You Weeks

The Hidden Cost: Time, Quality, and Relationships

The Computer Term That Hijacked Human Productivity

Proving the Cost: Demonstrations and Real-World Impact

Creating Predictable Access: The Power of "When"

The Reality Check: 168 Hours and Only One You

From Personal Change to Cultural Transformation

クイックサマリーモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』の要約を9分で読む・聴く

フラッシュカードモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』から厳選した9の洞察

エンタメモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』のレッスンを21分のストーリーで

パーソナライズモード - 『The Myth of Multitasking』の要約を0分で読む・聴く

The Myth of MultitaskingのPDFをダウンロード

The Myth of MultitaskingのEPUBをダウンロード

おすすめの本

重要なポイント

The Multitasking Myth: A Productivity Illusion Costing You Weeks

The Hidden Cost: Time, Quality, and Relationships

The Computer Term That Hijacked Human Productivity

Proving the Cost: Demonstrations and Real-World Impact

Creating Predictable Access: The Power of "When"

The Reality Check: 168 Hours and Only One You

From Personal Change to Cultural Transformation