Do you sometimes find yourself drawing random¹ patterns and designs during meetings and lectures? Some people believe it shows you aren't listening or paying attention. However, there are studies which claim the opposite, and that doodling might actually be beneficial.

 

Doodling seems to be ubiquitous. In the past it was seen as a mindless activity and a product of the absentminded.  However, in 2016, an article on the Harvard University website discussed the idea that random drawings may assist memory retention² and concentration.

 

The article highlights that 26 of 44 American presidents were known to doodle, with Ronald Reagan famous for drawing cowboys. A 2009 study conducted by psychologist Jackie Andrade asked 40 people to listen to a 'dull and rambling³' voice message. Half of the group were asked to doodle and shade in a picture. Those who did were able to recall 29% more of the information contained in the message.

 

Some experts believe that embracing your creative and artistic⁴ sides during meetings may engage your mind. Jesse Prinz, a renowned⁵ professor of philosophy, actively⁶ encourages his students to doodle. He believes that doodling is the 'attentional sweet spot'.

 

And it might not just be good for your concentration. An artist known as Mr Doodle has made a career out of his scribbles⁸. He sells his art online and also goes to people's homes to decorate their walls.

 

It seems that random drawing to aid concentration might be becoming more of a thing. People like Sunni Brown, an advocate for doodling, teach adults how to sketch⁹ and scribble⁷ in the workplace. So, the next time you see someone haphazardly¹⁰ drawing pictures during a meeting, it might be a sign that they are listening more than you think.

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