Here’s a question to get you started.
What is common to the following?
Roti, Kapda and Makaan
Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram
Blood, Sweat, and Toil
Aap, Main aur Bagpiper
Mind, Body, Soul
I, Me, Myself
Dharti, Paatal, Aakash
Etc. etc. etc.
Three things.
All these are in triads. In threes. As part of one message.
This is typically used in writing (see this) and other similar disciplines (comedy, performing arts, etc) and the law finds application at multiple places.
You know three lives that you got when you played Super Mario? Contra? Or most other computer games?
Three meals of the day?
Three steps to success?
Three wishes that you could make from the genie?
There is so many places where you see it. It is like the Golden Ratio. They are applied at places that you often fail to see. In fact, these “laws” are used by master communicators to influence conversations and moods. Reminds me of that famous talk by Steve Jobs at Stanford where he talks about some stories from his life. See it here…
Can you guess how many stories does he talk about? Lemme know in comments.
You have three guesses. You know, three strikes.
In fact, most stories, folklores, and even films follow the three-act structure. The Hero’s Journey (the universal storytelling structure) is about three parts – go into an adventure, win a decisive battle, and come back. I am sure if someone were to dissect more great narratives, they’d spot these laws being used at multiple places in those texts!
So, the lesson for you and I while we write?
Next time you have to talk to someone, try by saying that you have three things to talk about. And then like a numbered list, say, first.. this; second that and third, whatever.
You would see that the audience pays a little more attention. Try it.
Next time when you have to write, try to write in threes. You can use this to write stories, essays, films, books, IELTS applications, blog, content, and whatnot.
Like this entire post is in threes. Just that this is the second thing of the third section. What about the third one? Guess?