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Use Peer Comparisons

UX Best Practices

Peer comparisons show users how they compare to similar others. This leverages social comparison theory — people naturally evaluate themselves relative to peers.

Effective comparisons: "You read more than 73% of users this month" or "Your energy usage is below your neighbors'."

Why it works: Social norms are powerful motivators. Showing users they're above or below average influences behavior without explicit instruction.

Quiz

Pass: 3/3 correct

1. Social comparison theory states that people naturally:

2. When a user is far below average, peer comparisons can:

3. Opower's energy comparison shows users their usage relative to: