> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.designreference.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.designreference.xyz/cognitive-tools/ux-laws-principles/behaviour/parkinsons-law.md).

# Parkinson's Law

Parkinson's Law is a principle that suggests work expands to fill the time available for its completion.&#x20;

If you have a task or project and you give yourself a certain amount of time to finish it, you'll probably end up taking that entire time, even if the task could have been completed more quickly.&#x20;

This law highlights how time management and deadlines can impact productivity and efficiency. So, if you want to be more efficient, consider setting shorter, realistic deadlines to avoid unnecessary delays.

#### Further Reading

{% embed url="<https://lawsofux.com/parkinsons-law/>" %}

{% embed url="<https://medium.com/weavedesign/this-is-why-you-cant-finish-early-683e6de03f42>" %}

{% embed url="<https://www.atlassian.com/blog/productivity/what-is-parkinsons-law>" %}

{% embed url="<https://blog.logrocket.com/product-management/parkinsons-law/>" %}

#### Further Viewing

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Li3xm4jeLL0>" %}


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