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Few experiences are more frustrating than knowing you are capable of something and failing precisely when it matters most. Cognitive scientist Sian Beilock investigates why pressure can sabotage expertise, whether during an examination, a sporting contest, a presentation, or an important conversation. Her research shows how anxiety can consume the working memory needed for complex tasks, while excessive self-monitoring can disrupt skills that normally feel automatic. Choke is reassuring because poor performance under pressure is neither mysterious nor necessarily permanent.