Mental models are a way of explaining how things work. Throughout our lives, we build up a personal collection of mental models to understand the world around us.
Mental models aren't perfect but developing a rich toolbox of them can be useful in navigating the complexities of life. Learning to intuitively apply the right models in the right situations is something we develop with practice.
This website is a curated collection of models with broad applicability in everyday life. There’s a focus on brief descriptions and simple, real life examples of the models in use.
Weekly Mental Model
Zeigarnik Effect
We tend to remember unfinished tasks better than completed ones.Description
The Zeigarnik Effect is a psychological phenomenon that suggests people remember uncompleted or interrupted tasks better than completed tasks. Named after Soviet psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik, who first studied the phenomenon, it implies that incomplete tasks create a kind of mental tension that improves recall. This can be applied in various fields, such as education and project management, to enhance productivity and learning by structuring tasks and breaks effectively.
Examples
Students are more likely to remember the contents of a study session if they take a break in the middle, leaving some material unfinished until they return.
Cliffhangers in TV shows and books exploit the Zeigarnik Effect by leaving the audience eagerly anticipating the resolution in future episodes or chapters.