How the Simple Rule of 3 Makes Stories Memorable

Not 1, not 2, but 3 famous chefs…

This is how Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars hooks you faster than a TikTok algorithm. Channel 9 knows what they’re doing – they’re weaponising the rule of three like it’s some kind of psychological warfare.

Think about it: “Friends, Romans, Countrymen.” “Blood, sweat, and tears.” “Location, location, location.” Hell, even “Stop, drop, and roll” – because apparently our brains need everything served in neat little triplets or we completely lose our s*%t.

Here’s the thing: our brains are pattern-obsessed toddlers. We see three things and immediately go “Ooh, shiny! Beginning, middle, end! Story time!” It’s like we’re hardwired to expect a satisfying trilogy instead of a confusing sequel nobody asked for.

Ever notice how coffee comes in small, medium, or large? That’s not a coincidence – that’s corporate psychology playing your brain like a fiddle. Two choices feel limiting, four choices give you decision paralysis, but three? Three feels like you’re actually in control of your caffeine destiny.

Science backs this up: our brains literally file away information better when it comes in threes. It’s the cognitive equivalent of perfectly organised Tupperware – complete but not overwhelming.

Comedians figured this out ages ago. Set up, reinforce, then BAM – hit you with something completely ridiculous. Works every damn time.

I learned this the hard way during my Moth story. Originally, I had this whole “keep or donate” thing going – said it twice and thought I was being clever. Then my mentor, Robbi Mack, basically told me I was being an amateur. “Do it three times,” she said. “Trust me.”

She was right. That third repetition didn’t just complete the pattern – it turned a decent story into something that stuck with people. It was like adding the perfect amount of salt to a dish, except instead of flavour, I was seasoning my audience’s memory.

So here’s your takeaway: Whether you’re writing copy, giving a presentation, or trying to convince your partner to finally replace that hideous couch, remember the rule of three. It’s not just good advice – it’s evolutionary psychology wrapped up in a neat little package.

Because at the end of the day, three isn’t just a number. It’s a superpower.