A Study on Cognitive Load and Mental Bandwidth at Work

Authors:

Sai Abinaya Sri. T1 and Dr. D. Chitra2

1 MBA Student, Department of Management Studies, Panimalar Engineering College, Chennai

2 Professor, MBA., Ph.D., Department of Management Studies, Panimalar Engineering College, Chennai

Reg. No. 2114246310163 | Anna University, Chennai

Received: April 2026 | Accepted: May 2026 | Published: May 2026

Abstract: The thinking ability and mental capacity of employees are significantly affected by work pressure in deadline-driven environments. This study investigates the relationship between cognitive load and mental bandwidth among employees at Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Constructions, a leading infrastructure conglomerate in India. Using a structured questionnaire-based quantitative approach, primary data was collected from 179 employees across various departments. Statistical tools including Chi-Square, Mann-Whitney U Test, Kruskal-Wallis H Test, and Pearson Correlation were employed for analysis. Key findings reveal that 49% of employees experience high cognitive workload, 86% face high work pressure, and 78% report mental fatigue. Notably, 90% believe AI tools can reduce mental workload, though 51% do not currently use them. Mental bandwidth was found to be a significant mediator between workload and stress, with 75% of respondents affirming its role in coping with work-related pressure. The study concludes with recommendations for workload management strategies, AI tool integration, and well-being programs.

Keywords: Cognitive Load, Mental Bandwidth, Work Pressure, AI Tools, Employee Performance, Construction Industry, L&T Constructions