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
Premack's Principle
More desirable behaviors can be used to reinforce less desirable behaviors.Description
Premack's Principle, often used in psychology, suggests that more desirable activities can motivate and reinforce less desirable ones. It's based on the idea that if a person wants to do a particular activity, they can use that desire as a reward for completing a less appealing task first. This principle is especially useful in behavior modification, education, and self-discipline strategies, helping individuals or educators to encourage the completion of necessary but less appealing tasks by following them with more enjoyable activities.
Examples
A child who enjoys playing video games can be encouraged to finish homework first, using game time as a reward.
An employee who loves coffee breaks can use the break as a motivation to complete a challenging report.