From the article by Tim Urban

Question

Inside the mind of the master procrastination

Answer the following question in a 6th graders response. Answer each question in 3 sentences.
1. Why do you think people procrastinate? Explain your answer.
2. What trouble can procrastination get you in? Give a specific example along with your answer.
3. Have you ever found yourself thinking the same way as the "instant gratification monkey" from the video? If so, give an example.
4. What causes "the panic monster" to step in? Have you ever had a time where you were overwhelmed due to procrastination?
5. Do you think procrastination is a choice? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

1. I think people procrastinate because they want to avoid doing things that seem hard or boring. Instead of working on tasks, they might get distracted by fun activities, like playing video games or watching TV. It’s like they choose to do things that make them happy right now instead of focusing on responsibilities.

2. Procrastination can get you in trouble because it can lead to last-minute work that isn’t very good. For example, if you wait until the night before to write a big essay for school, you might be too tired or stressed to do your best job. This can result in a lower grade or not finishing it at all.

3. Yes, I have thought like the "instant gratification monkey." There are times when I should be studying for a test, but instead, I end up playing video games or scrolling through social media. I know I should be doing my homework, but the fun things are just so tempting!

4. "The panic monster" steps in when deadlines are approaching or when consequences become serious. I remember a time when I waited until the last minute to study for a big math test, and I felt really stressed and anxious. It was overwhelming because I realized I didn't know the material well enough to do great on the test.

5. I think procrastination is partly a choice, but it can also be really hard to overcome. People have to decide to start their work, but sometimes they get distracted easily or feel too overwhelmed. So even if it’s a choice, it’s not always easy to make the right one.