Techniques for Creative Thinking

First of all, you should read the introduction which discusses the question: “What can I do to Increase my creativity?”

Techniques for Creative Thinking:

  • Random Input
  • Problem Reversal
  • Ask Questions
  • Applied Imagination – Question Summary
  • Lateral Thinking
  • Six Thinking Hats
  • The Discontinuity Principle
  • Checklists
  • Brainstorming
  • Forced Relationships / Analogy
  • Attribute Listing
  • Morphological Analysis
  • Imitation
  • Mindmapping
  • Storyboarding
  • Synectics
  • Metaphorical thinking
  • Lotus Blossum Technique
  • In the realm of the senses
  • Use of drawing (from Robert McKim’s Experiences in Visual Thinking IdeaToons (by Michael Michalko) New!
  • NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Techniques
  • Assumption Smashing
  • DO IT! method of Roger Olsen
  • LARC Method
  • Unconscious Problem Solving
  • Simplex – a “complete” process with three stages (finding problems,solving problems, implementing solutions) and eight discrete steps represented as a wheel to reflect the circular, perennial nature of problem solving. The full name is the Basadur Simplex process. Its eight steps include: problem finding, fact finding, problem defining, idea finding, evaluating and selecting, action planning, gaining acceptance, and taking action.
  • Fuzzy Thinking  – Some further examples of creativity techniques and guidelines linked with historical examples.
  • Breakthrough Thinking – The seven steps of uniqueness, purpose, solution after next, systems, needed information collection, people design, and betterment timeline.
  • Michael Michalko’s Thinkertoys
  • James Higgin’s 101 Creative Problem Solving Techniques

Techniques for Creative Thinking (PDF)