The ability to multitask is central to many important occupations. Individual differences in multitasking ability have been linked with differential activation within the prefrontal cortex (PFC), but causal evidence is lacking. In this study we applied transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to the PFC during performance of the dual-task videogame Warship Commander (WSC). For low performers- cathodal stimulation, regardless of hemisphere, decreased performance in a subtask of WSC during stimulation, with effects persisting 24hours later. Anodal stimulation to right PFC also decreased performance in the same subtask, but this effect was limited to performance during stimulation. Stimulation did not significantly affect performance for high performers. The results of this study are the first to provide causal evidence for differential recruitment of the PFC for low and high performers. These findings indicate the need for assessment of individual differences in development of cognitive interventions and training protocols.
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