9 cognitive models that will help to solve any problem

1. Map is not the territory

The model is borrowed from the work of mathematician Alfred Korzybski devoted to general semantics. It raises the issue of subject-object relationship. The essence lies in the fact that the description of reality is not reality itself. In other words, the story of how you spend your vacation, is not he leave; repair plan is not itself repair; description of scientific development - not the scientific development. The concept of "map is not the territory" is very popular in neuro-linguistic programming and is used to effectively achieve the objectives.

How to apply

In addressing the problem, remember: no matter how complete was her description, it is still always subjective. We have no access to objective reality. In our arsenal is a set of beliefs about it.

What is he doing

The model helps to avoid cognitive biasesAnd develops critical thinking.

2. circle of competence

The model is taken from a letter from an American businessman Warren Buffett, which he addressed to shareholders. In it, Buffett asks investors to focus its work on those areas where they are really well-versed, and less wasted on others. That is, if you are good in the restaurant business, do not try to run parallel to the production of cosmetics.

How to apply

Engage in what you know right now. Delegate the rest. Expand the range of expertise and knowledge gradually. Do not be fooled that you know more. Remember, do not know - it is normal.

What is he doing

It helps to realize the growth zone, improve, make better decisions and learn from others.

3. allocation of primary sources

The concept has been used philosopher Aristotle, the inventor Elon Musk economist and Charlie Munger. According to her, a complex problem must be solved by separating the underlying basis of its facts from assumptions. Leave only the basic concepts - they are easier to work with.

One example of the use of this model - building Elon Musk rocket Space X. To create it, the mask needed to move away from the stereotype that launch rockets into space is expensive. After all, he wanted to send people to Mars, and it is possible to carry out only significantly reduce costs. The inventor has decided not to build on the experience of previous raketostroiteley, and to return to first principles: for example, on their own to figure out how much are the materials to build a rocket.

How to apply

Imagine that your knowledge - this tree. First he formed root system and trunk: so laid foundation, the basic concepts. Later on it grow the leaves and fruit - detail. Solving the problem, think about the basic moments and forget about the details.

What is he doing

Learns to think for himself, to reveal the creative potential and the transition from linear to nonlinear thinking. The best way to redesign the complex situation - to find an unexpected decision.

4. thought experiment

This cognitive model was popular in ancient Rome and Greece, among philosophers. Since then, it had adopted many scientists. It has helped to increase the understanding of many disciplines - from philosophy and ethics to quantum mechanics. Among the most famous thought experiments: Achilles and the TortoiseCat Schrödinger, trolley problem.

model advantage is that it works only in the imagination. This helps to avoid errors, to assess the potential consequences of actions and to choose the best solution before something is actually done.

How to apply

To get rid of the problem, play to start its solution in the head. Consider a different version of events, including the absurd. So you will be able to make out more options and come to unexpected conclusions.

What is he doing

Stimulates the abstract and logical thinking, forces to reflect on issues that are not so easy to answer. It allows us to understand that many things can not be known to us.

5. Thinking second level

In solving the problem, you can use thinking first and second levels. the first level of thinking allows us to consider steps towards the solution and the consequences of these actions. Most often, they are on the surface, and immediately understandable to all.

Turn on the second level of thinking is more difficult because it requires consideration not only the actions and their consequences, but what happens when you solve the problem and will inevitably create new ones. It is the ability to foresee the highlights of successful people: they think many moves ahead.

How to apply

In solving the problem, ask yourself three questions:

• Where are the main variables and how they interact with each other?
• What can I influence?
• What happens if I do this, then?

What is he doing

It helps to stand out among others and found an unexpected solution to the problem.

6. thinking of probabilities

"What if ???" - one of the most popular and oldest questions. He tried to answer many, including scientists involved in probability theory - a branch of mathematics studying random events, variables and their properties.

One example of the brilliant use of this model demonstrated Vera Atkins. Working for British intelligence during World War II, she was forced to hire spies to activities in France, having scant and contradictory information. Atkins had to think through all the details. Who knows French? Who can withstand stressful situations? Who will give up at the first opportunity? She had to use not facts, and their own assumptions about what might happen.

How to apply

Taking a decision based not only on what you know already, but that can happen. Note that some events are more likely than others. Often ask yourself, "What would happen if ???"

What is he doing

Can more accurately predict the future and find the best solutions.

7. Inversion

The model was allegedly created by the German mathematician Carl Gustav Jacob Jacobi in the XIX century, became famous for his work on elliptic functions. Solving a difficult problem, the scientist has always followed the principle of man muss immer umkehren, or "Invert, always inverts."

We are used to solve problems linearly, from the very beginning. But it does not always work. Using the inversion as a cognitive tool, you come to the situation at the end. For example, instead of having to think about how to live a happy life, you imagine that it would turn into a nightmare. Or, instead of thinking about how to improve the system, fantasizing that would make her fall back.

How to apply

inversion formula is: instead show outstanding ability, avoid stupid. Solving the problem, turn the it on its head.

What is he doing

The model does not help get rid of the problem, but will force to look at it from a different angle. In addition, invert will identify and remove the obstacles that lie in the way of a solution.

8. Occam's razor

The model has received its name in honor of William of Ockham - Franciscan friar, philosopher and theologian, who lived at the turn of the XIII and XIV centuries. Its essence boils down to a simple formula: the simpler, the better. This applies to all decisions, assumptions and actions.

For example, are produced according to this principle habits. The more often you repeat the same action, the less energy the brain spends on its implementation. He simplifies his task.

How to apply

If you have any more opposing solutions to the problem, choose what is easier. However, do not blindly follow this principle: sometimes the simplest solution does not work.

What is he doing

It allows us to solve problems quickly, establish the truth without empirical data. Suitable for the formation of the preliminary findings.

9. Hanlon's razor

The concept got its name from the writer Robert J.. Hanlon in 1980, but its principle was used already in the XIX century by Napoleon Bonaparte. The essence of the model is formulated as follows: Never attribute to malice what can be explained by stupidity. In other words, unpleasant events rarely occur at the conceived plan.

Recall the case with Apple. When Siri was just launched, people paid attention to the fact that she is not looking for the clinic, producing abortion. Many thought it was a strategic move the company. However, the system just crashes occurred. Apple did not intend to offend anyone.

How to apply

Remember how often you yourself fail the family - unless you have done so out of spite? To make better use of the model, include logic, experience and empirical evidence. Work with Hanlon's Razor should be careful, because sometimes the surrounding is really trying to hurt you.

What is he doing

It helps to strengthen the relationship, less judging others, to improve the rational thinking and empathy. Useful when you covered paranoia.

see also

• 20 cognitive biases that affect your decisions →
• the architecture of choice: 8 facts about how we make decisions →
• A simple tactic that will help you make a decision →