MENTAL MODEL · M0676

Habit Stacking

TechnicalHigh supportNeuroscience

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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Proposed by James Clear. The fastest way to build a new habit is to attach it to an existing one. Formula: "After [current habit], I will [new habit]." Scaffolding effect: reduces friction to action. Instead of creating a new behavior from scratch, use the inertia of an old neural pathway as a trigger. For example: "After brushing my teeth (old), I will immediately floss (new)."

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Reduces friction to action. Instead of creating a new behavior from scratch, use the inertia of an old neural pathway as a trigger. For example: "After brushing my teeth (old), I will immediately floss (new)."

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Attach the new habit after an existing one ('after A, do B'), using the existing anchor to lower initiation friction.

MINIMUM ACTION

In progress 0/1

Practice this model in one real situation:

Choose a stable old habit as an anchor. 2. Attach a specific new action. 3. Keep the same context. 4. Make it so small it cannot fail.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

Learning progress0%

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Source support: Explicit

link
baike.baidu.comhttps://baike.baidu.com/item/%E6%8E%8C%E6%8E%A7%E4%B9%A0%E6%83%AF/23561050ZH · Explicit
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