ELI5 Déjà Vu - why does now feel like before?

What is deja vu? Why does it occur? Explain the weird sensation when you remember that you forgot something, but can't remember what it is that you forgot? What is presque vu? How about jamais vu - often described as the opposite of deja vu?   ... We explain like i'm five!   Thank you to the r/explainlikeimfive community as always and in particular the following users whose questions and comments formed the basis of this discussion: nobody_o, jxf, keligrein & solensia To the ELI5 community that has supported us so far, thanks for all your feedback and comments. Send us an e-mail: [email protected]