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[Computer Programming/Game Development/Web Development] How often do you multi-task while working?
What I mean by when I say this is, whenever you're programming or coding rather, how often will you take a break to relax yourself by reading or watching something.
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6 answers
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Chandler’s Answer
I don't take breaks rather just watch shows or movies while I am doing it. If it is work from home however, Ill play World of Warcraft where there is 30-45 minute queues and code during the Q windows.
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Irma’s Answer
A good rule of thumb is to take a break every 45-60 minutes; the break could be 10-15 minutes. It is a good practice to stretch during your break and you can also go outside, be in contact with nature or like you said, do something you like. You can use a timer to remind you to take a break and to go back to work. Hope this helps :).
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Nancy’s Answer
Maybe I'm reading too much into your question, but I think you might be wondering about the number of breaks allowed in a programming job. Let me shed some light on that.
In the US, computer programming is typically classified as an "exempt" job, which means it's not subject to overtime pay. Basically, it's not about the number of hours you work, but rather how much you accomplish. There aren't any set break times, so you're free to take a break whenever you feel the need. Your productivity is often measured against your colleagues, and this is what sets you apart when it comes to getting raises and promotions. While this might make the environment seem competitive, remember that programming often requires teamwork for larger projects. So, your ability to work well within a team is another factor that can help you stand out for promotions and raises.
When you're job hunting, be sure to consider the team structure of the potential job and how your personal need for breaks fits into their daily routine. Pay attention to how the team's break habits integrate into their workflow without hampering productivity.
In the US, computer programming is typically classified as an "exempt" job, which means it's not subject to overtime pay. Basically, it's not about the number of hours you work, but rather how much you accomplish. There aren't any set break times, so you're free to take a break whenever you feel the need. Your productivity is often measured against your colleagues, and this is what sets you apart when it comes to getting raises and promotions. While this might make the environment seem competitive, remember that programming often requires teamwork for larger projects. So, your ability to work well within a team is another factor that can help you stand out for promotions and raises.
When you're job hunting, be sure to consider the team structure of the potential job and how your personal need for breaks fits into their daily routine. Pay attention to how the team's break habits integrate into their workflow without hampering productivity.

John Easton CEng FIET FBCS CITP
Design large computer systems for companies
39
Answers
Winchester, England, United Kingdom
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Corey!
Two thoughts here.
1. I think this depends on your personality. I know some people that want to focus on one thing only without distractions and they will just plough through regardless. Personally, I need "distractions" so while I will spend time on one task, I will frequently change to work on something different (I have lots of parallel projects and clients at once so there is always something else to do). I might not take a break to actually relax, but I will certainly go and work on a different thing for a while and then come back to whatever task needs my attention next.
2. Forget programming. I think that this sort of "taking a break" or "doing something different" is important whatever sort of job you have. I think that unless you are the sort of individual who really can focus properly on one thing, everyone after a while starts to find their mind wandering and that is the time that you need to either take a break or do something different for a while.
Let me also introduce you to a concept called flow. When you have this, time just passes because you are so engaged with what you are doing, you don't notice. If you can get into a flow state, that is great and really productive, but it can be hard to do. Key to doing that is having a task that is interesting / doing things you enjoy.
Hope that helped?
Two thoughts here.
1. I think this depends on your personality. I know some people that want to focus on one thing only without distractions and they will just plough through regardless. Personally, I need "distractions" so while I will spend time on one task, I will frequently change to work on something different (I have lots of parallel projects and clients at once so there is always something else to do). I might not take a break to actually relax, but I will certainly go and work on a different thing for a while and then come back to whatever task needs my attention next.
2. Forget programming. I think that this sort of "taking a break" or "doing something different" is important whatever sort of job you have. I think that unless you are the sort of individual who really can focus properly on one thing, everyone after a while starts to find their mind wandering and that is the time that you need to either take a break or do something different for a while.
Let me also introduce you to a concept called flow. When you have this, time just passes because you are so engaged with what you are doing, you don't notice. If you can get into a flow state, that is great and really productive, but it can be hard to do. Key to doing that is having a task that is interesting / doing things you enjoy.
Hope that helped?
Updated
Anthany’s Answer
I take breaks often while coding and I think everyone should! It's very easy to get frustrated when coding because, as i'm sure you know, any little mistake can cause your entire code to not work. I've found that whenever I do get frustrated and try to fix whatever was causing the issue, i more often than not will completely over look it whereas when I step away and take a break, i've found that it's a lot easier to find what my mistake was, which tends to be something small like an extra period, and fix it right away!

James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7221
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello There Corey!
Understanding Multi-tasking in Programming
Multi-tasking while working, especially in fields like programming, can vary significantly among individuals based on their work habits, the nature of the tasks at hand, and personal preferences for managing focus and productivity. Here’s a detailed exploration of how often programmers might engage in multi-tasking through breaks or distractions such as reading or watching content.
1. Definition of Multi-tasking in Programming Context
Multi-tasking in this context refers to the practice of switching between different tasks or activities while working on a primary task, such as coding. This could involve taking breaks to read articles, watch videos, or engage with other forms of media that are not directly related to the coding task.
2. The Nature of Programming Work
Programming is often a mentally intensive activity that requires sustained concentration and problem-solving skills. Many programmers find that prolonged periods of focused work can lead to fatigue or decreased productivity over time. As a result, they may take breaks to refresh their minds.
3. Frequency of Breaks Among Programmers
Research indicates that taking regular breaks can enhance overall productivity and creativity. According to studies on cognitive performance, short breaks can help maintain high levels of focus and prevent burnout. For instance:
Pomodoro Technique: This popular time management method suggests working for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break. After four cycles, a longer break is recommended (15-30 minutes). During these breaks, programmers might choose to read articles or watch videos.
Attention Restoration Theory: This theory posits that engaging in different activities can help restore attention capacity. Thus, many programmers may find themselves reading tech blogs or watching tutorials during their downtime.
4. Personal Preferences and Work Environment
The frequency with which programmers multi-task varies widely based on individual preferences and workplace culture:
Individual Differences: Some programmers thrive on continuous focus without distractions, while others benefit from intermittent breaks filled with different types of media consumption.
Workplace Culture: In collaborative environments or open offices, distractions may be more prevalent, leading individuals to take more frequent breaks to manage stress or regain focus.
5. Impact on Productivity
While some level of multi-tasking can be beneficial for mental health and creativity, excessive distraction can hinder productivity:
Cognitive Load: Constantly switching between tasks can increase cognitive load and reduce efficiency.
Quality vs. Quantity: Engaging too frequently in unrelated activities during work hours may lead to lower quality outputs if not managed properly.
Conclusion: Balancing Focus and Breaks
In conclusion, the frequency with which programmers multi-task by taking breaks for relaxation activities like reading or watching something varies widely among individuals but is generally encouraged within reasonable limits to enhance productivity and creativity.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA provides comprehensive research on cognitive psychology and productivity strategies that emphasize the importance of breaks for maintaining mental acuity during intensive tasks like programming.
2. Harvard Business Review (HBR)
HBR publishes articles based on empirical research regarding workplace productivity techniques including the Pomodoro Technique and its effectiveness in enhancing focus through structured breaks.
3. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied
This journal features studies examining attention restoration theory and its implications for work performance, particularly how varied activities during work hours can influence cognitive function.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Understanding Multi-tasking in Programming
Multi-tasking while working, especially in fields like programming, can vary significantly among individuals based on their work habits, the nature of the tasks at hand, and personal preferences for managing focus and productivity. Here’s a detailed exploration of how often programmers might engage in multi-tasking through breaks or distractions such as reading or watching content.
1. Definition of Multi-tasking in Programming Context
Multi-tasking in this context refers to the practice of switching between different tasks or activities while working on a primary task, such as coding. This could involve taking breaks to read articles, watch videos, or engage with other forms of media that are not directly related to the coding task.
2. The Nature of Programming Work
Programming is often a mentally intensive activity that requires sustained concentration and problem-solving skills. Many programmers find that prolonged periods of focused work can lead to fatigue or decreased productivity over time. As a result, they may take breaks to refresh their minds.
3. Frequency of Breaks Among Programmers
Research indicates that taking regular breaks can enhance overall productivity and creativity. According to studies on cognitive performance, short breaks can help maintain high levels of focus and prevent burnout. For instance:
Pomodoro Technique: This popular time management method suggests working for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break. After four cycles, a longer break is recommended (15-30 minutes). During these breaks, programmers might choose to read articles or watch videos.
Attention Restoration Theory: This theory posits that engaging in different activities can help restore attention capacity. Thus, many programmers may find themselves reading tech blogs or watching tutorials during their downtime.
4. Personal Preferences and Work Environment
The frequency with which programmers multi-task varies widely based on individual preferences and workplace culture:
Individual Differences: Some programmers thrive on continuous focus without distractions, while others benefit from intermittent breaks filled with different types of media consumption.
Workplace Culture: In collaborative environments or open offices, distractions may be more prevalent, leading individuals to take more frequent breaks to manage stress or regain focus.
5. Impact on Productivity
While some level of multi-tasking can be beneficial for mental health and creativity, excessive distraction can hinder productivity:
Cognitive Load: Constantly switching between tasks can increase cognitive load and reduce efficiency.
Quality vs. Quantity: Engaging too frequently in unrelated activities during work hours may lead to lower quality outputs if not managed properly.
Conclusion: Balancing Focus and Breaks
In conclusion, the frequency with which programmers multi-task by taking breaks for relaxation activities like reading or watching something varies widely among individuals but is generally encouraged within reasonable limits to enhance productivity and creativity.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA provides comprehensive research on cognitive psychology and productivity strategies that emphasize the importance of breaks for maintaining mental acuity during intensive tasks like programming.
2. Harvard Business Review (HBR)
HBR publishes articles based on empirical research regarding workplace productivity techniques including the Pomodoro Technique and its effectiveness in enhancing focus through structured breaks.
3. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied
This journal features studies examining attention restoration theory and its implications for work performance, particularly how varied activities during work hours can influence cognitive function.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.