Peak-End Rule: How We Remember Experiences (Not How They Actually Happened)

Have you ever left a movie thinking it was amazing even if it was just okay most of the time? Or maybe you remember a vacation as terrible because of one awful day, even though the rest of it was fine? That’s your brain playing a little trick on you, thanks to something called the Peak-End Rule.

So, what is the Peak-End Rule?

The Peak-End Rule is a psychology idea that says we don’t remember experiences based on how they were overall. Instead, we mostly remember two parts:

1. The peak - the most intense moment (either really good or really bad)

2. The end - how it finished
   

In other words, our memories of events are shaped more by a few standout moments than by the average of the whole experience.

A quick example

Let’s say you go on a 7-day vacation:

• Days 1 to 5 are okay sunny, relaxing, nothing too special.

• Day 6 is amazing you go snorkeling, see sea turtles, and feel on top of the world.

• Day 7 is a disaster your flight is delayed, your luggage is lost, and you’re stressed out.
  

Even though most of the trip was good, you might remember the vacation as bad because of that awful ending. Or maybe you’ll remember it as great because of that amazing snorkeling day. That’s the Peak-End Rule in action.

Why does this matter?

Understanding the Peak-End Rule can help in many areas of life:

• Customer service: A business might focus on making a great final impression like a thank-you note or small freebie because people often remember how they were treated at the end.
  

• Parenting & teaching: Kids are more likely to remember the high points of an activity or how it ended. Ending a tough lesson with something fun or positive can help them remember the experience better.
  

• Event planning: A wedding or party doesn’t need to be perfect the whole time. One magical moment and a sweet ending can leave a lasting impression.
  

Can we use this to our advantage?

Absolutely. If you want to create better memories for yourself or others try this:

• Create a highlight: Do something memorable, exciting, or meaningful during an experience.

• End on a high note: Whether it’s a meeting, a date, or a vacation, try to finish with something enjoyable or thoughtful.
  

Final thoughts

Our brains don’t always record every detail. Instead, they remember stories based on key moments. Knowing about the Peak-End Rule helps us see why some memories stand out more than others and how we can shape better ones moving forward.