Why It’s Harder for Your Brain to Work When You’re Tired

Cognitive fatigue is viewed as an inflated cost of cognitive control. It is characterized by more impulsive decisions in which people lose the ability to manage their brain processes as easily and make more spur-of-the-moment judgments. It occurs when we must use our heads for extended periods of time, whether it is while researching, writing an article, making a timetable, or reading a book. Several scientists are interviewed, including Phillip Ackerman, professor in the School of Psychology, who says engaging in enjoyable activities makes you less prone to experiencing cognitive tiredness than engaging in boring activities.