What is "cognitive load" in the context of interpreting?

Cognitive load refers to the mental effort required to process information during interpreting. Interpreters must actively listen to the source language, comprehend its meaning, and then reproduce it in the target language—all in real-time. This process demands significant mental resources, as interpreters need to manage various tasks simultaneously, including memory retention, language processing, and contextual understanding.

High cognitive load can lead to fatigue and reduced performance, as it taps into the interpreter’s working memory and mental faculties. Consequently, managing cognitive load is crucial for interpreters to maintain clarity and accuracy in their work. This understanding emphasizes the importance of training and techniques that help interpreters streamline their cognitive processing to enhance their effectiveness in communication.