Processing Speed 

Processing speed is the amount of time it requires for an individual to take in information, process it, and respond or react to the information they were given. An individual’s processing speed affects how quickly they are able to perform everyday tasks that are automatic to them, or a novel task that requires them to actively process it. It is a fundamental cognitive skill that significantly impacts our executive functions, which are higher order thinking skills such as working memory, planning, flexible thinking, attention, and organization skills. In addition to our reaction times, processing speed influences our ability to learn. However, it is important to note that it is not equivalent to an individual’s intelligence level. Below is a diagram illustrating the building blocks needed to successfully carry out executive functions.           

Examples of different types of processing speed includes: 

• Visual: The amount of time it takes you to understand a document you are reading 
• Auditory: Being able to understand and keep up with a conversation with a friend 
• Can include other senses  

Examples of slow processing speed	Strategies to help individual	Strategies for the individual
Slower reaction times  Slower information processing speed while engaging in activities that require working memory  Selecting a specific brand of bread at the store from a list in your mind  Difficulty following directions  Demonstrating a slower work pace	Allowing more time to complete work  Allowing more time to process and respond to information  Giving slow, simple-step directions  Allowing breaks  Eliminating unnecessary extra work and simplifying the task  Providing encouragement and positive support  Giving friendly reminders  Utilize the individual’s strengths in thei workplace	Deep breathing exercises  To decrease anxiety that could further impair slow processing skills  Requesting for special accommodations (e.g., taking exams  in college)  Rehearsing/repeating the information to strengthen the neural connections in your brain (neuroplasticity)  Breaking activity into smaller chunks  Organize workspace and decrease distractions  Typing information rather than writing it  Get plenty of rest and sleep

References:

CogniFit. (n.d.). Processing speed: cognitive ability. CogniFit.  https://www.cognifit.com/science/cognitive-skills/processing-speed  

Ebaid, D., Crewther, S. G., MacCalman, K., Brown, A., & Crewther, D. P. (2017). Cognitive  processing speed across the lifespan: Beyond the influence of motor speed. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 9(62). https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2017.00062 

Lana J. Ozen, Myra A. Fernandes, Slowing Down after a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A  Strategy to Improve Cognitive Task Performance?, Archives of Clinical  Neuropsychology, Volume 27, Issue 1, January 2012, Pages 85–100,  https://doi.org/10.1093/arclin/acr087 

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