Focusing on one goal can reduce attention to alternatives.
Limited evidenceSupporting studies exist, but they are few and conditions matter.
Example
Editorial example: focus on the current application step while preserving review and save exits.
Why it works
Shah and colleagues experimentally study activation of a focal goal and inhibition of competing goals, suggesting both focus and switching costs.
On the web
Make the current task clear and disclose optional help on demand, retaining back, save and support paths.
When it backfires
Do not use cognitive findings to justify hiding comparison or cancellation. Measure omissions and failed switches as well as focus.
Sources
Examines how activation of a focal goal affects accessibility of alternative goals.
Shah, J. Y., Friedman, R., & Kruglanski, A. W. (2002). Forgetting all else: On the antecedents and consequences of goal shielding. JPSP, 83, 1261–1280. Open source