Concepts
The irreducible epistemic atoms underlying the curriculum. 4,828 atoms across 8 types
Use a 3-step context switch
When switching between cognitive contexts, implement a three-step loading protocol: (1) close the current context by writing a one-sentence summary and noting open loops (30 seconds), (2) create a transition gap of deliberate non-engagement (60 seconds), (3) load the new context by reviewing relevant notes and orienting before producing (60 seconds).
Spend 60-90 seconds orienting before producing…
During context loading for complex cognitive work (coding, writing, design), spend the first 60-90 seconds orienting through review of previous state before attempting to produce output, as the cognitive system requires initialization time before it can operate at full capacity in that domain.
When multiple contexts compete, designate one as primary…
When multiple contexts are active simultaneously, identify which one is primary for the current work period and explicitly park all others with specific time and place commitments.
Agent priority orderings must be context-specific — which…
Build priority orderings that are context-specific rather than global, defining which agent takes precedence during specific time blocks, capacity states, or situational contexts rather than attempting universal rankings.
Log every context switch for one day
Log every context switch during a baseline measurement day by recording time, source task, and destination task without attempting reduction, because accurate switching-cost assessment requires measurement that precedes intervention to establish true baseline against habituated behavior.
Never apply the two-minute rule during maker time…
Never apply the two-minute rule during maker-time blocks—capture small tasks for later processing instead, as a 2-minute interruption during deep work costs 25+ minutes in context recovery time.
Scale buffer time to cognitive distance
Schedule 5-minute buffers between meetings of similar type, 10-15 minute buffers between cognitively different activity types, and 20-minute buffers after intense or emotional interactions to contain context-switching costs within designated intervals.
Batch tasks by cognitive context…
When batching similar tasks, group by cognitive context type (communication, financial, scheduling) rather than by chronological arrival order to minimize context-switching overhead.