Executive function is the ability to organize activities to complete tasks efficiently — plan and carry out steps, learn new things, avoid getting stuck on unproductive behavior. Key components: - **Cognitive flexibility**: ability to consider different possible responses - **Identify relevance**: know what's important vs not useful in the situation - **Learn from experience**: adjust behavior based on feedback - **Remember rules**: what's appropriate, make the right decision - **Keep goal in mind**: identify each step needed to achieve it Individuals with AS tend to have problems with executive function skills. This manifests as difficulty organizing daily activities, getting things done efficiently, and managing life. The deficit is most pronounced in younger individuals. This is distinct from weak central coherence — executive function is about **planning and organizing**, while central coherence is about **information synthesis**. **Source:** Lovett, *Solutions for Adults with Asperger Syndrome*, Ch 3 (p87) See also: [[Central Coherence Weak vs Strong]]