Cognitive load

/ˈkɒɡ.nɪ.tɪv loʊd/ noun

Definition

The total amount of mental effort being used in working memory at any given time during information processing.

Etymology

From Latin 'cognitio' (knowledge) + Old English 'lad' (way, journey, carrying). Theory developed by John Sweller in 1988.

Kelly Says

Cognitive load is how full your mental workspace is — too much info at once and your brain starts dropping things, like juggling too many balls!

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