In what way might doodling impact performance in situations deemed boring?

Doodling can enhance engagement with the material by providing a way for individuals to maintain their focus during tasks that may seem monotonous or uninteresting. Research suggests that engaging in doodling during lectures or while consuming information can help individuals stay alert and process information more effectively. This is because doodling allows for a form of active engagement that keeps the mind occupied without distracting from the primary task.

When a person doodles, they can channel their attention and creativity into a physical activity that prevents their mind from wandering too far, thereby enabling better retention of the information being presented. This dual-tasking mechanism can lead to improved recall and understanding of the material, as the act of doodling can stimulate creativity and reinforce cognitive connections related to the topic at hand. Overall, doodling serves as a cognitive tool that enhances rather than detracts from performance in otherwise boring situations.