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Abstract
A common or multiple-demand (MD) pattern of frontal and parietal activity is associated
with diverse cognitive demands, and with standard tests of fluid intelligence. In
intelligent behaviour, goals are achieved by assembling a series of sub-tasks, creating
structured mental programs. Single cell and functional magnetic resonance imaging
(fMRI) data indicate a key role for MD cortex in defining and controlling the parts
of such programs, with focus on the specific content of a current cognitive operation,
rapid reorganization as mental focus is changed, and robust separation of successive
task steps. Resembling the structured problem-solving of symbolic artificial intelligence,
the mental programs of MD cortex appear central to intelligent thought and action.