Do you really know? Why does walking through doorways make us forget things?
May 11, 2025
Ever walked into a room and forgotten why you went there? You’re not alone! This phenomenon, known as the doorway effect, is surprisingly common. Research from the University of Notre Dame sheds light on how our brains handle transitions between spaces. Discover the science behind this quirky memory lapse and get tips on how to tackle it. No need to worry; it’s all part of being human!
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Understanding the Doorway Effect
- The "doorway effect" makes people forget what they intended when moving into a new room.
- The brain treats doorways as event boundaries, updating its focus to the new environment and clearing old info.
Brain's Event Updating Process
- When moving between rooms, the brain performs "event updating," shifting focus to the new environment.
- Similar memory effects happen when switching browser windows or when new people enter the room.
Tips to Overcome Forgetfulness
- To avoid forgetting your goal, take an object related to your task with you as a reminder.
- Returning to the previous room or thinking about it can help jog your memory.