How to Multitask Online and Across Multiple Devices

Being able to multitask online and across different devices is essential for staying productive. It all starts with strong time management skills—especially when you're navigating emails, apps, and a steady stream of tasks. While multitasking can help you get more done, the way you approach it matters.

By applying best practices and using the right tools, you can stay focused, work efficiently, and consistently deliver high-quality results.

What is Multitasking?

Multitasking is often seen as juggling several tasks at once. But really, it’s about quickly changing your attention between different things.

For example: when you check emails, switch between work apps, and chat with your team, your brain isn’t handling all these things together.

Instead, you are shifting your focus very fast. This can seem productive but can also lead to more mental strain.

Each time you change tasks, you lose a little focus and efficiency. Many people feel stressed because of the high number of tasks they have and think multitasking is the only way to manage.

However, it’s vital to realize that multitasking can cause more mistakes and tiredness if you don’t do it with care and mindfulness. Knowing this can help you improve your multitasking skills without feeling overwhelmed.

Examples of Multitasking

Daily multitasking often happens in small but important ways.

• You might check your emails on your phone while in a virtual meeting. 
• You might switch between organizing an online reading list and responding to a flood of messages in your workspace apps. 
• Or, you could be editing spreadsheets while also keeping up with project updates and chatting with your team.

However, not all multitasking is the same—some people prefer to group similar tasks together.

For instance, they might answer all their emails in one focused time or work on reports in a set period. These methods can improve productivity without the mental drain that comes from constantly jumping between different tasks.

Smart multitasking uses your digital workspace well. This means smoothly switching between devices and platforms without getting distracted.

How Can You Start Multitasking Effectively?

To improve your multitasking, start by shifting your mindset. Instead of trying to do everything at once, think of multitasking as smoothly transitioning between tasks. Success lies in knowing your limits—be honest about how many tasks you can realistically manage. Overloading yourself can backfire, reducing your overall productivity and focus.

Prioritization is key! By identifying what matters most, you can build multitasking habits that are both effective and sustainable—not overwhelming.

Begin your multitasking journey by practicing intentional task-switching. Set clear boundaries for each activity to maintain focus and avoid mental clutter. Apply time management strategies like batching similar tasks and using productivity hacks and tools that support seamless workflow.

Remember, the goal isn't to constantly split your attention—it’s to coordinate your actions so that every shift between tasks is deliberate and purposeful. With consistent practice, your multitasking will become more efficient and dependable.

1. Use a Multi-Split View Browser

Multitasking with Split View allows you to manage multiple tasks more efficiently by displaying several tabs or windows side by side.

Using a multi-split view browser, such as Wave Browser, you can place duplicate tabs or windows side by side for easier multitasking—making it easy to check emails, review documents, and manage your calendar all at once. Instead of constantly minimizing or toggling between screens, everything you need stays visible and accessible. This visual setup saves time and keeps your workflow smooth and efficient.

But while multitasking with split view offers convenience, it also comes with potential distractions. Filling your screen with too many windows can quickly become overwhelming and lead to errors. The key is balance—limit the number of tasks displayed and avoid a cluttered digital workspace.

With a clean, intentional layout, split-view multitasking can help you stay organized, focused, and in control of your tasks. When used wisely, it turns multitasking into a strategic advantage rather than a source of stress.

2. Limit Distractions (Including Tabs!)

Building a productive environment starts with minimizing distractions—beginning with your browser. Closing unnecessary tabs helps you concentrate on what truly matters, allowing you to give your full attention to high-priority tasks.

Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique—working in focused sprints with short breaks—can significantly enhance your focus and prevent burnout. Structuring your day by batching similar tasks also helps you maintain momentum and work more efficiently.

Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing, can promote mental clarity and reduce stress. A calm, focused mindset improves your ability to multitask effectively and enhances your overall time management.

3. Set Clear Priorities

Effective multitasking starts with strong prioritization. Not all tasks carry the same weight—focusing on what matters most helps you direct your energy where it counts.

Tools like to-do lists and the Eisenhower Matrix can help you distinguish between what's urgent and what's truly important, allowing you to address high-impact tasks first.

With clear priorities in place, you reduce the need to constantly switch between tasks. Instead, you can structure your day around meaningful work and tackle your most important goals during peak energy hours. By organizing your workload and setting aside time for deep focus, you’re more likely to complete critical tasks without getting sidetracked by less significant ones.

4. Leverage Built-in Tools

Modern devices have strong tools to boost your multitasking. Features like split-screen mode, virtual desktops, and notification managers help you handle different tasks. By checking out the options on your device or using productivity apps, you can make your workflow smoother. This way, you can easily switch between important activities.

Apps like Cirkus, Asana, or Microsoft To Do give you a single place to manage tasks, set reminders, and automate repeated steps. Using these digital tools in your daily routine helps you keep track of everything. Spending some time to set up your workspace—like organizing related apps, setting hotkeys, or automating tasks—can enhance your multitasking and help you move easily from one task to another.

5. Track Your Energy, Not Just Time

Productivity isn’t just about how you manage your time—it’s also about how you manage your energy. Everyone has different peak performance periods. Some people are most alert in the early morning, while others hit their stride later in the day. By tracking your natural energy patterns, you can schedule your most important tasks when your focus is at its highest.

To support this, prioritize rest and recovery. Getting enough sleep and taking regular short breaks can significantly improve your multitasking abilities. 

By listening to your body, taking breaks, and aligning tasks with your energy levels, you reduce the risk of burnout and enhance your ability to multitask effectively throughout the day. These pauses allow your brain to recharge and maintain concentration.

What Are the Best Tools for Managing Multiple Tasks Online?

Effective online task management starts with using the right tools. Platforms like Asana, Trello, and Cirkus offer features such as task lists, reminders, and progress tracking to keep multiple projects organized across all your devices. These tools also centralize communication, deadlines, and file sharing—making it easier to stay on top of several tasks at once.

To further boost your multitasking efficiency, consider using browser extensions to manage tabs, time-tracking apps, and digital calendars. These tools help streamline your workflow and reduce friction when juggling multiple responsibilities.

How to Multitask on Android and Iphone

On Android, you can use:

• Split-screen mode to run two apps side by side (e.g., checking emails while viewing your calendar).
• App pinning to lock a single app on the screen and prevent accidental switching.
• Digital Wellbeing tools to manage notifications and screen time.

On iOS (specifically iPadOS):

• Slide Over and Split View allow multitasking with two apps, but these features are available on iPads, not iPhones.
• iPhones do not support true split-screen multitasking, but they do offer: App switching gestures, Picture-in-Picture mode (for videos), and Focus Mode / Do Not Disturb to limit distractions from notifications.

How to Multitask on Laptop

Laptops are powerful multitasking hubs, offering large screens and advanced operating system features that support seamless task-switching.

Tools like Windows Snap Assist, macOS Mission Control, Notepad for Mac, and Linux virtual desktops make it easy to manage multiple windows or desktops for different activities. By grouping apps based on purpose—such as work, communication, or creative tasks—you can streamline your focus and reduce screen clutter.

To enhance your multitasking even further, use keyboard shortcuts and taskbar or dock pinning to access frequently used apps instantly. Periodically review your open windows and close those you no longer need. This helps minimize visual distractions and keeps your attention centered on what matters most.

Is It Harder to Multitask as You Get Older?

As we age, our ability to switch between tasks can shift. Research suggests that older adults may find it more challenging to transition quickly between activities compared to younger individuals. This is often linked to changes in working memory and processing speed, which affect how efficiently the brain adapts to new tasks and maintains focus during multitasking.

However, age doesn’t mean multitasking becomes impossible—it just requires a smarter approach. Effective multitasking skills can be developed and sustained at any stage of life through intentional strategies. For example, grouping similar tasks, minimizing distractions, prioritizing focus, and even using tools like ChatGPT can help maintain high productivity.

In fact, age brings experience—an advantage in identifying what truly matters and choosing the right tools for the job. By embracing new technologies and strengthening time management habits, older adults can continue to multitask effectively and confidently.