Zeigarnik Effect

The Zeigarnik effect describes the tendency for unfinished or interrupted tasks to remain more salient in memory than completed ones. The classic account is that incomplete goals create cognitive tension that keeps them active.

Evidence is mixed and context-dependent, but the practical takeaway holds: open loops claim attention. To use it well, end a work session by writing the very next step—preserving helpful momentum—then close loops with a capture system so lingering tasks don't fuel rumination.