> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.designreference.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.designreference.xyz/cognitive-tools/ux-laws-principles/psychology/zeigarnik-effect.md). # Zeigarnik Effect The Zeigarnik Effect basically says that we tend to remember uncompleted or interrupted tasks better than completed ones. It's like when you're watching a TV show, and they end it with a cliffhanger; you can't stop thinking about what happens next. This happens because our brains find it easier to remember things that are left unfinished, creating a kind of mental tension that encourages us to complete those tasks. It's a bit like having a mental to-do list that keeps nagging at you until you finish what you started. #### Further Viewing {% embed url="" %} #### Further Reading {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://www.designreference.xyz/cognitive-tools/ux-laws-principles/psychology/zeigarnik-effect.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.