A Common Mechanism Behind Time Reproduction and Time-Based Prospective Memory

The capacity to accurately estimate time is crucial for carrying out intended actions in the future. Prior research on time-based prospective memory (TBPM) has explored the roles of external time monitoring, task characteristics, and time perception abilities in supporting the execution of delayed intentions. The present study examined whether TBPM performance shares common underlying mechanisms with two temporal tasks: time bisection and time reproduction. Participants completed both timing tasks followed by a TBPM task in a single experimental session (within-subject design). In the TBPM task, they were required to press a designated key every two minutes while simultaneously performing a visual search task. Cognitive load was manipulated by varying the number of distractors in the ongoing task. Results showed that performance in the time reproduction task—but not in time bisection—was significantly associated with TBPM accuracy, suggesting the involvement of shared cognitive processes between these two tasks. Participants who demonstrated greater accuracy in time reproduction and engaged in more effective time monitoring (clock-checking) strategies also performed better on the TBPM task. Although increased cognitive load influenced reaction times and monitoring behaviour, it did not significantly affect TBPM accuracy. These findings highlight the importance of temporal abilities in supporting successful performance in TBPM.