What is the rule of three? Meaning and examples

From “The Three Blind Mice” to the three-act play, the rule of three is a principle that has been around for centuries. Here’s how to use it to improve your writing and engage your audience.

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Rule of three meaning

Our brains are geared toward pattern recognition. But we also don’t want to overtask our memories with too many elements to keep track of. Hence, the rule of three: a principle that suggests that things arranged in threes are more satisfying, effective, and memorable than other numbers. This principle is used in various forms of communication, from storytelling to public speaking, advertising, and more.

“When we hear or read a list of three things, it’s easier for our brains to process and remember them. Three elements can create a sense of completeness and balance, instead of a pair, which can seem at odds with each other.”

Why is the rule of three effective?

The rule of three is effective for several reasons. It simplifies complex ideas and makes them more accessible to an audience. When we hear or read a list of three things, it’s easier for our brains to process and remember them. Three elements can create a sense of completeness and balance, instead of a pair, which can seem at odds with each other. It gives the audience a sense that they have heard everything they need to know about a particular topic.

Finally, the rule of three creates a rhythmic pattern that is pleasing to the ear. This makes it more memorable and enjoyable for the audience.

Examples of the rule of three

The rule of three is used in many areas of communication. Here are a few examples:

In storytelling: “The Three Little Pigs,” “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” and “Three Billy Goats Gruff” are all classic examples of stories that use the rule of three.
In speeches: “I came, I saw, I conquered” is a famous example of the rule of three used by Julius Caesar.
In politics: The Gettysburg Address ends with the promise of a government “of the people, by the people, for the people.”
In advertising: “Location, location, location” is a common adage in selling real estate.
In religion: “Faith, hope, and love” is a common quote from the Bible, specifically Corinthians.

Undoubtedly, you’ve heard of these statements: it’s because the human brain tends to retain information easier when it comes in threes. In other words, it’s simply catchier.

How to use the rule of three

Now that you know what the rule of three is and why it’s effective, here’s how you can use it in your own writing:

Use the rule of three to simplify complex ideas: When presenting a complicated idea, try breaking it down into three main points. This will make it easier for your audience to understand and remember.
Use the rule of three for emphasis: When you want to emphasize a particular point, try listing it along with two other related points. This will help draw attention to your main idea.
Use the rule of three to create rhythm: If you’re writing a speech or a piece of creative writing, try using the rule of three to create a pleasing rhythm. This will make your writing more enjoyable for your audience to read or listen to.

The rule of three is an easy yet effective writing principle that simplifies complex ideas, creates a sense of completeness and balance, and even makes your writing more enjoyable to read.

For more ways to reach your audience, learn how to write an argumentative essay, wield rhetorical language, or understand tricky grammatical parts such as gerunds.

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