Cal Newport has studied the science of high mental performance for years. He's written multiples books about getting better results in school and work, and has recently shifted his attention towards the problems of the modern day technology worker.

Newport himself is an Associate Professor of Computer Science at Georgetown University-- a position he argues requires long periods of deep concentration in order to produce results-- hence his interest in this topic.

In his seminal book about focus, Deep Work, the author makes the case that the ability to zoom-in without distraction on a cognitively demanding task is essential to thrive in today's modern knowledge worker economy. In order to cultivate this skill, he talks about implementing a personal schedule and various work habits that enable deep work (depending upon your profession).