According to experts and artificial intelligence analyses, sorting banknotes from highest to lowest alters perception and facilitates control over money. According to experts and artificial intelligence analytical data, sorting banknotes from highest to lowest alters perception and facilitates control over money. Sorting banknotes in descending order — that is, from highest to lowest — may seem like a trivial gesture, but studies show that it alters our relationship with money and helps with financial control. A recent study, which combines cognitive psychology and artificial intelligence, demonstrates this.
Psychologists note that this order creates a sense of abundance and control, as seeing the highest-value notes first reinforces the feeling of having sufficient resources available. AI, when analysing financial behaviour patterns, confirms that people who organise their money in this way tend to be more conscious of their spending and make fewer mistakes in managing their money.
Among the most significant findings are the following:
- When the highest denomination banknote is placed first, the brain registers this value as “part of the available budget” and reduces anxiety when spending.
- The descending order creates a visual effect of “reserve”, which encourages more moderate spending.
- Disorganised money — a jumbled mix of notes — is associated with impulsive decisions and high spending.
- Experts recommend adopting this habit to improve financial control without the need for complex apps or tools:
- When you get home and empty your wallet, separate the notes from highest to lowest value.
- Before buying something, look at the notes with the highest face value to reinforce the feeling that “there is still a reserve”.
- If you share money at home (e.g. for common expenses), suggest that everyone use this system for greater clarity.
Ultimately, sorting notes from largest to smallest is a simple but effective strategy: a small change in habit that can improve your perception of money and discipline in spending.
