Attention can be directed consciously or operate automatically, depending on the circumstances and the individual.

  Conscious attention is a deliberate and voluntary process. This type of attention involves actively focusing one's awareness on a particular stimulus or task. For example, when studying for an exam, you consciously direct your attention towards the material you are reading, blocking out distractions.

  Automatic attention, on the other hand, is involuntary and reflexive. It occurs without conscious effort or intention. This type of attention is driven by the salience or significance of a stimulus. For instance, if a loud noise suddenly occurs, your attention will automatically be directed towards it, even if you were engaged in another task.

  It's important to note that attention can also operate in a hybrid manner, with both conscious and automatic components. For example, when driving a familiar route, you may find that your attention is automatically drawn to potential hazards along the way, while simultaneously being consciously focused on navigating the road.

  Factors such as task demands, novelty, and personal preferences can influence the extent to which attention operates consciously or automatically. Some individuals may naturally have a tendency to direct attention consciously, while others may rely more on automatic processes.

  Overall, attention is a complex cognitive process that can be influenced by various factors, and it can be directed consciously or operate automatically depending on the context.