original_query: What is the effect of sleep deprivation on working memory tasks?
query: What is the effect of sleep deprivation on working memory tasks?
answer: Sleep deprivation increases errors on working memory tasks, even if performance speed may initially seem faster.  Imaging studies show decreased accuracy and slower reaction times, along with degradation of event-related potentials. Glucose metabolism decreases in the thalamus, prefrontal cortex, and posterior parietal cortex as working memory impairment increases.