#Note/Permanent #CognitiveScience #Productivity/TaskManagement/TaskSwitching A task cue is a signal linked to the corresponding task that needs to be completed next. For instance, a reminder notifying you of an upcoming meeting in 15 minutes serves as a task cue, with the meeting being the task to be completed. ![[Task cuing paradigm.png]] Task cues can be categorized into two types: 1. **Transparent Cues**: These are cues that directly indicate the relevant task. An example would be an explicit instruction to perform a specific action, such as writing a document. Transparent cues offer clear, unambiguous guidance on what task needs to be undertaken next. 2. **Nontransparent Cues**: These cues indirectly suggest the relevant task. The action may be unclear or broadly defined, such as being told to work on a project without specific instructions on what exactly needs to be done. With nontransparent cues, the individual must infer or recall the specific tasks associated with the cue. Research[^1] has shown that [[Switch Cost|switch costs]] are generally lower with transparent cues than with nontransparent cues. Transparent cues facilitate direct task-relevant verbalization, allowing individuals to quickly and efficiently prepare for and engage in the task at hand. In contrast, nontransparent cues require additional cognitive effort to interpret the cue's meaning and determine the appropriate course of action. [^1]: [Control and Interference in Task Switching - A Review](https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/fileadmin/06020300/user_upload/Kiesel/Kiesel_etal_2010_Psychological_Bulletin.pdf)