Which brain region is primarily involved in executive functions such as planning and decision-making?

• A. Occipital cortex
• B. Prefrontal cortex
• C. Temporal lobe
• D. Cerebellum

Answer: (B)

Executive functions like planning and decision-making rely on the prefrontal cortex, a region at the front of the brain that coordinates thoughts and actions toward long-term goals. It holds information in working memory, weighs options, predicts outcomes, and inhibits inappropriate responses to help choose a plan of action. Different parts of this region contribute to specific aspects: the dorsolateral area supports cognitive control and organization of steps, while orbitofrontal and ventromedial areas help evaluate rewards and outcomes to guide choices. In contrast, the occipital cortex processes visual information, the temporal lobe handles memory and language, and the cerebellum coordinates movement and timing. So the prefrontal cortex is the best fit for executive functions like planning and decision-making.