Cognitive Load

The amount of mental resources required to perform a task.

Levels of Analysis

Neural: activation of the prefrontal cortex
Cognitive: resource allocation
Behavioral: errors, slowing down, simplified decision-making

Inputs

• task complexity
• number of elements
• novelty
• stress and distractions

Outputs

• reduced accuracy
• shift to heuristics
• fatigue
• impaired memory

Related Processes

• Working Memory
• Attention
• Decision‑Making
• Executive Control

Related Models

• Cognitive Load Theory
• Limited Capacity Model

Related Biases

• Heuristic Substitution
• Simplification Bias
• Decision Fatigue

Example

A person chooses the first acceptable option when tired and overloaded.

Visual Schema

Task Demand → Resource Allocation → Overload → Performance Drop