Cognitive load refers to the amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. It encompasses the cognitive burden that information processing demands from an individual, particularly when performing complex tasks or learning new information. The theory of cognitive load identifies three types of cognitive load: intrinsic (the inherent difficulty of the material), extraneous (the way information is presented), and germane (the effort applied to creating meaningful connections with the new information). Managing cognitive load is crucial in educational settings and in the design of user interfaces, as it can significantly affect learning efficiency and user experience. Effective strategies to reduce cognitive load include simplifying information, using visual aids, and breaking down information into manageable chunks.