What is a negative effect of multitasking while studying?

Multitasking while studying often leads to a decrease in productivity and efficiency, which can result in taking more time to complete assignments or absorb information. When students attempt to juggle multiple tasks, such as studying while checking social media or responding to messages, their attention is divided. This scattered focus makes it harder to engage deeply with the material, leading to more frequent mistakes and the need for revisions. Consequently, students find themselves spending additional time trying to grasp concepts that could have been learned quicker with undivided attention. In contrast to the notion that multitasking could enhance focus or improve retention, research consistently shows that concentrated study sessions yield better results in terms of both understanding and memory.