Table 1.

Main types of executive functions.

General Characteristics	Executive Functions
WM's on-line core EFs Every complex and novel cognitive task demand their use	Focusing and sustaining attention Switching attention Activating and updating representations Inhibition of responses and information
Off-line higher order EFs Most complex intellectual abilities such as reasoning and problem solving demand their use. They are carried out within WM and require to apply core WM's EFs	Planning future behavior
	Revision of task execution
Emotional processes They are involved in solving any kind of complex, novel and difficult task.	Emotional control of behavior