The Carrot Trick: Why 90% of people give the same answer
Published on: Feb. 16, 2026, 9 p.m. | Source: The Indian Express
A viral social media reel demonstrates the psychological trick of priming, where simple mathematical additions lead most people to name "carrot" when asked for a vegetable. This occurs because priming subtly influences the brain to produce a specific response. Experts explain that priming involves planting a seed in the mind through cues like words or images, nudging the subconscious toward a desired outcome. This technique manipulates cognitive biases and decision-making shortcuts, relying on expectation, influence, and pattern recognition. It's effective on open and responsive individuals, with subtle body language and vocal modulation playing a role. Beyond entertainment, priming has applications in marketing, sales, negotiation, and personal development, where it can shape behavior and beliefs.
