Why You Forgot The Reason You Walked Into A Room

According to cognitive neuroscientist Christian Jarrett, the doorway effect phenomenon happens because our brains naturally compartmentalize activities and information based on rooms or specific places. He explains that the brain “resets” a little when moving from room to room, causing whatever we thought of in the previous room to slip out of our mind.

Researchers have found that the brain tends to file away events and memories from one room as soon as we go into another and it’s more likely to happen when we’re distracted. Jarrett says because of that a potential hack could prevent the problem. “Try to stay focused on your purpose when you pass through a doorway on an errand,” he suggests, adding that making a note may also be helpful.