Controlled Processes

Controlled processes are mental activities that require conscious effort, attention, and focus. For example, learning to drive a car or solving a complex math problem involves controlled processing, where you deliberately allocate your mental resources to complete tasks. These processes are slow, effortful, and flexible, allowing you to adapt to new situations. Unlike automatic processes (like breathing or reading familiar words), controlled processes demand awareness and intentional thinking, especially when mastering new skills or handling complex tasks. Once a skill becomes automatic, less conscious effort is needed, freeing up cognitive resources for other activities.