What are the primary functions of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex?

Answer 1

The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) is primarily an 'executive' area of the brain, since this is neocortex, i.e., the evolutionarily newer portion of the brain. It has many connections to other parts of the brain and can influence other areas, but some of its more essential duties are involved in higher order thinking functions including planning motor functions, controlling attention, and maintaining our working memory.