How much do you put off what you know you need to do?

The Pure Procrastination Scale (IPS) was developed by Piers Steel and published in 2010. It measures procrastination as a stable behavioral trait — the tendency to voluntarily delay tasks despite expected negative consequences.

Unlike other scales, the IPS separates pure procrastination from indecisiveness and perfectionism. The 12 items cover different domains of everyday life: tasks, decisions, social commitments.

What it doesn't measure: the IPS doesn't evaluate the causes of procrastination (perfectionism, fear of failure, ADHD) or its emotional impact. Those require additional tools and clinical evaluation.

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Pure Procrastination Scale (IPS)

Developed by Steel (2010), the IPS measures procrastination as a behavioral pattern — the voluntary delay of tasks despite expected negative consequences.

Validated by: Steel (2010)

1. I pay my bills on time
2. I keep preparing to do something even if it's already time to start
3. When I have a deadline, I wait until the last moment
4. I return calls and messages promptly
5. Even tasks that require little preparation take me a long time to start
6. I generally make decisions quickly
7. I put off starting difficult things
8. I quickly catch up on work that has piled up if I get behind
9. When I have something to do, I get right on it
10. I usually buy birthday and holiday gifts at the last minute
11. I generally complete my tasks on time
12. I generally find excuses for not doing something
References

Frequently asked questions

Is procrastination the same as laziness?

No. Research shows procrastination is more about emotional regulation than motivation. We delay tasks that cause discomfort, not tasks we don't want to do.

Why do I procrastinate even when I know it hurts me?

Because the relief of avoiding the task is immediate, while consequences are future. The brain responds to present relief. Understanding that mechanism is the first step.

Is there treatment for chronic procrastination?

Yes. CBT, ACT therapy, and cognitive coaching have evidence. Mindfulness interventions also improve the underlying emotional regulation.

Are my answers stored?

No. The test runs entirely in your browser.