EFFECT OF MICRO-BREAKS ON ATTENTION, MENTAL FATIGUE, AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS

Sustaining cognitive focus during prolonged tasks is a major challenge across domains such as academics, knowledge work, and high performance environments. Recent research has highlighted the potential of micro breaks brief, intentional pauses lasting seconds to a few minutes as cost effective cognitive interventions that enhance sustained attention, working memory, and overall task performance. This study investigates the effects of micro breaks on sustained focus, comparing continuous task performance against intervals with structured micro breaks. An experimental analysis with 60 participants shows statistically significant improvements in task accuracy, perceived mental fatigue, and response time in the micro break condition. Findings support micro break implementation strategies as feasible, scalable cognitive tools for improving sustained focus in both educational and professional contexts.