Several well-known techniques for nudging are defaults, social-proof heuristics and increasing the ease of choosing the desired option.

 A social-proof heuristic refers to the tendency for individuals to look at the behaviour of other people to help guide their behaviour. The example mentioned above of consumers being more likely to purchase fruit and healthy snack options when relocated next to the cash register is social proof heuristic. 

Another example of a nudge is the setting of defaults, pre-set courses of action that take effect if nothing is specified by the decision-maker. This type of nudge, which works with a human tendency for inaction, appears to be particularly successful, as people may stick with a choice for many years.

Nudge principles and techniques are now increasingly significant in communications, marketing, and the motivation of groups.  

Consumers are increasingly interested in the principles that brands embrace beyond transactional concerns like price. Customers want to invest in companies that align with their convictions and aspirations. This alignment is the basis of a brands promise and builds trust.  The most potent brands help customers realise some aspect of their own potential by using nudge theory.  A recent example is the green advertisements by Woolworths. These ads not only advertise Woolworths weekly specials but also align with people’s concerns about green energy, the environment, and healthy eating habits.