Abstract: There is complex relationship which is either bidirectional or unidirectional interference between time estimation and nontemporal information processing. Different results are related to attention and working memory resources required by distinct tasks. The central executive component of working memory is mainly recruited during timing that the more nontemporal task requires central executive resources, the greater bidirectional interferences become. Phonological loop and visuospatial sketchpad, demanded by different type of distractive tasks are also involved in time estimation. Working memory capacity is an index reflecting personally whole working memory ability, thus timing is affected by other factors-related to working memory capacity such as age, intelligence as well. Timing and working memory rely on the same neural representation such as frontal cortex, parietal cortex, and basal ganglia. The future research should enrich contents of working memory, integrate subsections of temporal processing to explore the time course and neural mechanism of working memory affecting timing, and strive to seek application value in this field.

Key words: working memory, time information processing, central executive system, phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad