Friday - June 5th, 2026
Apple News
×

What can we help you find?

Open Menu

Taylor Swift’s Secret 3-Pen Trick (and the Brain Science Behind It)

Ever wonder why Taylor Swift swears by her quirky “three pen” songwriting trick — fountain, glitter, and quill — or why Serena Williams bounces the ball exactly five times before every serve? 🤔

Turns out, it’s not just habit or superstition. It’s neuroscience.

In this video, we dive into the science of context-dependent memory — the brain’s powerful way of tying information and performance to the environment, rituals, and cues around us. From divers remembering words underwater, to Michael Jordan’s lucky shorts, to Taylor Swift’s creative flow, you’ll discover how small rituals create big results.

You’ll learn:
✅ What context-dependent memory is and why it matters
✅ How athletes and performers use environmental cues to “get in the zone”
✅ How Taylor Swift’s 3-pen trick is really a brain hack for creativity
✅ Simple ways you can use context cues to boost focus and memory
✅ Why rituals aren’t superstition — they’re science

Whether you’re a student, leader, athlete, or just someone trying to stay productive, this brain hack will help you unlock focus, creativity, and confidence on demand.

✨ Try it for yourself and build your own “superpower cues.”
👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more brain-based tools to help you think smarter, work better, and feel happier.

Dr. Melissa Hughes Neuroscience Researcher, Author & Keynote Speaker

After having spent 10 years teaching both big kids and little kids (elementary school and university), I began my neuroscience research journey to understand how the brain works and how to make it work better. I recognize that not everyone is as geeky as I am, but I believe most of us want to optimize brain function for as long as we can. Beyond my work, I live in Naples, Florida and enjoy anything in the sunshine.