Why do individuals with ADHD struggle with tasks that require holding multiple pieces of information? 

People with ADHD often find it difficult to keep several bits of information in mind at once. This is not a sign of poor motivation. It reflects how ADHD affects working memory, attention control, and the brain networks that support planning and organisation. According to NICE guidance (NG87) and the Royal College of Psychiatrists, these differences can affect everyday tasks at home, work, and school. 

Why holding multiple pieces of information is harder with ADHD 

Research shows that working memory functions like a mental workspace. People with ADHD often have a smaller or less stable workspace, especially when tasks require holding and manipulating several pieces of information at the same time. Studies such as those published in Frontiers in Psychiatry and The Lancet Psychiatry found that both children and adults with ADHD show reduced efficiency in the brain’s prefrontal and fronto parietal networks, which are responsible for attention, planning, and executive control. 

How this affects daily life 

When cognitive load increases, the brain’s attention and working memory systems can become overwhelmed. This makes it harder to follow multi step instructions, manage complex tasks, switch between activities, or keep track of priorities. NHS information highlights that these challenges often appear as disorganisation, forgetfulness, or losing track of tasks, even when the person is trying their best. 

For those seeking clarity or assessment, services like ADHD Certify offer structured ADHD assessments for adults and children in the UK. 

Key takeaway 

ADHD can make it harder to juggle multiple pieces of information because of differences in working memory and executive function. Understanding this helps individuals and families use practical supports and structured strategies to reduce cognitive load and improve day to day functioning. 

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.