How to Think Clearly

Explaining a tricky concept to a child often reveals the gaps in your own knowledge.

When faced with a complicated issue, it can be illuminating to try to explain the concept to a small child. This exercise forces you to break the matter down into its most fundamental components. Often, you’ll realize that you don’t fully understand the problem.

But by employing this simple, iterative activity to clarify your thoughts, you gain a better understanding of your own reasoning process. You will uncover assumptions you hold that may interfere with clear thinking. The point is not to find one absolute truth. Rather, the aim is to help you explain your stance to yourself so that you are better equipped to communicate your ideas to others.

Take stock of your thoughts before picking them apart.

Before delving into the analysis process, take a moment to reflect. Try to relax. Notice how you feel. Watch the flow of your thoughts as though you were an objective outsider. Identify...