How Clutter Negatively Affects Focus

A recent study from the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute explores how clutter negatively affects how we process information.

The study explains:

Multiple stimuli present in the visual field at the same time compete for neural representation by mutually suppressing their evoked activity throughout visual cortex, providing a neural correlate for the limited processing capacity of the visual system.

Unclutterer comments:

The clutter competes for your attention in the same way a toddler might stand next to you annoyingly repeating, “candy, candy, candy, candy, I want candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy …” Even though you might be able to focus a little, you’re still aware that a screaming toddler is also vying for your attention. The annoyance also wears down your mental resources and you’re more likely to become frustrated.

Unclutterer: “Scientists find physical clutter negatively affects your ability to focus, process information”