The Zeigarnik Effect

The Zeigarnik Effect is a psychological phenomenon that suggests that people tend to remember uncompleted or interrupted tasks better than completed ones. In other words, our brains tend to retain information about incomplete tasks or goals more easily than information about completed ones.

This effect is important in UX design because it highlights the importance of creating interfaces that help users keep track of their progress and complete their tasks. By creating an interface that clearly shows users their progress and what still needs to be done, designers can leverage the Zeigarnik Effect to motivate users to complete their tasks and achieve their goals.

A practical example of the Zeigarnik Effect in action in UX design is the use of progress bars or task lists to help users track their progress and see what still needs to be done. By using these design elements, designers can create interfaces that help users stay motivated and engaged with the task at hand.

However, it is important to note that the Zeigarnik Effect can also create a sense of anxiety or stress in users if they are unable to complete their tasks. To mitigate this effect, designers should strive to create interfaces that are easy to use and provide clear guidance on how to complete tasks.

Overall, by considering the Zeigarnik Effect in your UX design process and creating interfaces that help users keep track of their progress and complete their tasks, designers can create interfaces that are more engaging and effective, leading to a more successful product or interface.