Core Understanding
What is executive functioning?
The brain’s mental skills for planning, focus, memory, and self-regulation.
What are the 3 parts of executive functioning?
Working memory, inhibition, cognitive flexibility.
When does executive functioning start developing?
Early childhood (around age 2–3).
How does EF help with studying?
Supports focus, memory, and resisting distractions.
Name an everyday use of EF.
Morning routines, recipes, planning transportation.
Why is EF important for daily life?
It helps with decision-making, problem-solving, and self-control.
Define working memory.
Holding and manipulating information in your mind.
What brain region controls EF?
The prefrontal cortex.
What EF skills help with long assignments?
Planning, time management, task initiation.
One strategy to strengthen EF?
Checklists, timers, chunking tasks.
Why is EF essential for school?
It supports focus, organization, completing work, and managing deadlines.
Define inhibition control.
Stopping impulses and distractions.
How does EF develop in childhood?
Skills grow as kids learn routines, rules, and emotional control.
How does EF help with essays?
Brainstorming, organizing ideas, drafting, revising.
What is a tool for organization?
Calendars, planners, visual schedules.
Why does EF matter for relationships?
It helps regulate emotions, communicate, and understand others.
Define cognitive flexibility.
Ability to adapt, switch strategies, and shift thinking.
How does EF change in adolescence?
Planning and emotional regulation improve, but inconsistently.
Why is EF needed for time management?
It involves planning, prioritizing, and monitoring progress.
How does stress affect EF?
Reduces focus, memory, and self-control.
How do psychologists define executive functioning?
Higher-order cognitive processes controlled by the prefrontal cortex.
How do all 3 work together?
They help plan, remember steps, stay focused, and adapt.
When is EF fully developed?
Mid-20s (around age 25).
Give a task that uses all EF skills.
Writing a research paper.
How can teachers help?
Chunk tasks, provide structure, teach planning skills.