When multiple similar objects are present, the one that differs from the rest is most likely to be remembered.

Chapter 8 of Laws of UX introduced me to the Von Restorff Effect, and I found it really interesting. The idea that items that stand out are more likely to be remembered or noticed makes a lot of sense, and it gave me a lot to think about for my own design work. I now see just how powerful it can be to use contrast and differentiation thoughtfully.

One important takeaway for me was the reminder that while making elements stand out is effective, highlighting too many things at once defeats the purpose. If everything is trying to grab attention, then nothing actually does. This subtle balance is something I want to keep in mind moving forward. It’s about designing intentional moments of emphasis—whether that's a primary call-to-action button, a special promotion, or an error message—and making sure those elements are truly distinct.

I will try my best to apply the Von Restorff Effect carefully in my projects. It’s not just about being flashy; it’s about guiding the user’s attention in meaningful ways to improve clarity, usability, and overall experience. Understanding this effect adds another layer to how I think about hierarchy and focus in design, and I’m excited to start using it more intentionally.