Procrastination and Temporal Motivation Theory - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering the key terms and concepts from the procrastination lecture, including the Procrastination Equation, strategies to raise expectancy and value, and practical techniques.

Procrastination

The tendency to delay starting or completing tasks; analyzed here using the Procrastination Equation and related strategies.

Temporal Motivation Theory

A mental model stating Motivation = (Expectancy × Value) ÷ (Impulsiveness × Delay); used to identify causes of procrastination.

Motivation

The drive to complete a task, as defined by the Procrastination Equation, influenced by Expectancy, Value, Impulsiveness, and Delay.

Expectancy

Belief in one’s ability to finish a task; higher expectancy reduces procrastination.

Value

Rewards and perceived pleasantness of performing a task; higher value reduces procrastination and can be enhanced by better rewards or task experience.

Impulsiveness

Susceptibility to distractions and impulses; higher impulsiveness increases procrastination.

Delay

Time between now and when the task’s reward is received; longer delays tend to increase procrastination.

Eating the Frog

Tackling the most difficult or unpleasant task first to reduce procrastination.

Pomodoro Technique

Time-management method using 25-minute focused work blocks followed by 5-minute breaks to reframe work as short, manageable chunks.

Sub-tasks

Breaking a large task into smaller steps (e.g., research, rough draft, sections) to raise Expectancy and reduce overwhelm.

Help-seeking

Asking for help (office hours, study groups) to increase confidence and Expectancy.

Habitica (Gamification)

Using game elements (levels, XP, gear) to increase Value and motivation for tasks.

Low-density Fun vs High-density Fun

Low-density fun are quick distractions; high-density fun are meaningful activities; balancing them boosts motivation and reduces procrastination.

Environment

Your study setting; reducing distractions and creating a dedicated space to protect focus.

Cold Turkey

A website blocker used to block distracting sites and apps.

Ego Depletion / Willpower Debate

Whether willpower is a finite resource; research is mixed, with emphasis on rest-work cycles and environmental control.