A system for decreasing task switching costs

1. If I'm working on a project, I set aside a specific amount of time that morning. For example, if I'm working on Project X for 2 hours, I will put it on my calendar and say that from 9 AM to 11 AM I'm working on Project X.
2. I remove any and all negative distractions during that time. That means I'll usually put my phone on Airplane mode so I don't receive any social media notifications. Notice how I said negative distractions? I made this distinction because in the same research report from UC Irvine it revealed that not all distractions are bad. If the distraction is related to the task that you're working on, it can actually be beneficial. For example, if I'm working on the routing engine for a web application and the client messages me to discuss the application, what they say may actually influence the work that I'm doing or give me an idea on how to refine it. That's a good distraction and it's why I typically will keep my email and instant messenger on while I'm working. However, if I see that the Skype message or email is coming from another client or is completely unrelated I'll simply ignore it. I do know many Deep Work proponents who would say that 100% of your distractions have to be eliminated; however, that's not always practical.
3. Have a clear conclusion for whatever you are studying or working on. If you don't establish an end for the task, your mind is going to be prone to wander in the same way that a runner without a finish line won't be able to effectively compete in a race. The research around task switching costs also reveals that even planned distractions are harmful, so if you are planning on working for 2 hours straight on a project, don't plan any breaks in the middle of the task. Maintain your focus throughout the allotted time and then you'll be free to relax afterwards.

I hope that this has been a helpful overview of task switching costs and that you now have some practical methods for staying on task.