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Batch Processing

productivity · easy · No extra time — reorganizes existing work into consolidated blocks

What is Batch Processing?

Group similar tasks together and complete them in dedicated time blocks rather than switching between different types of work throughout the day. Reduces context-switching costs.

Is there evidence for it?

EVIDENCEmoderate

How do you do Batch Processing?

  1. 1.Identify recurring task types: emails, phone calls, admin, creative work, meetings
  2. 2.Assign specific time blocks for each batch (e.g., emails at 10am and 3pm only)
  3. 3.Turn off notifications for unbatched categories during focus time
  4. 4.Process each batch completely before moving to the next category
  5. 5.Gradually extend intervals between batch sessions as you build tolerance

How long does it take?

No extra time — reorganizes existing work into consolidated blocks.

Is it hard to start?

easy.

> how Shift handles procrastination

Source: General productivity principle. Supported by research on task-switching costs (Monsell, 2003) showing a 40% productivity loss from multitasking. Popularized by Tim Ferriss (The 4-Hour Workweek, 2007).
context-switching · efficiency · email · time-management · focus · organization
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> everything in productivity

This is one entry from the library Shift matches against. It is general information, not advice about you, and nothing on this page came from anyone's conversation.