Deep work
A state of pouring cognitive resources into one task to produce output that needs deep thinking, a modern productivity concept proposed by Cal Newport.
Deep work is a state of pouring cognitive resources into one task to produce output that needs deep thinking. It is a concept proposed by Cal Newport in his book “Deep Work” (2016) and is widely referred to as a way of using time that produces high-value results in knowledge work. Its opposite is Shallow Work, which refers to low-concentration work such as replying to email and attending meetings.
Comparing Deep Work and Shallow Work
| Item | Deep Work | Shallow Work |
|---|---|---|
| Time needed | 90 minutes or more of continuous time | A few minutes to 30 minutes |
| Typical work | Strategy planning, design, writing, research | Replying to email, quick checks, routines |
| Cognitive load | High (full use of the brain) | Low (can be done on autopilot) |
| Rarity of the output | High (irreplaceable) | Low (anyone can do it) |
| Economic value | High | Low |
4 philosophies for achieving Deep Work (Newport’s classification)
Newport classifies the ways of practicing it into 4 philosophies. Choose the one that fits how you work.
Factors that hinder Deep Work
Typical hindrances
- Meetings scattered in fragments (10:00, 12:00, 14:00, and so on)
- A constant stream of Slack / email notifications
- Drop-in requests like “Got a minute?”
- Habitually checking social media and the web
- Overconfidence in multitasking
Designing a Deep Work session
Set at least one clear goal for a 90-minute session and turn off all notifications before starting. Recording in one line what you achieved at the end makes the value stick. The basic move is to block a “Deep Work” event on the calendar with time blocking.
A common misunderstanding
Deep Work is neither “working long hours” nor “making all work Deep.” As Newport himself points out, even experienced practitioners can sustain deep concentration for only about 4 hours a day at most, and aiming for more lowers quality. Rather than increasing the total amount of Deep Work, it is easier to keep going by protecting 1-2 blocks of Deep Work a day and building a structure where Shallow Work is handled in batches in the remaining time. The misconception that “I must always be concentrating” tends instead to lead to exhaustion and self-criticism.