Visual Thinking
Externalize structure: relationships, sequence, trade-offs, and overlap are often clearer in space than in prose. Use the lightest diagram that resolves the confusion.
When to Use
- Textual explanation loops without convergence.
- The problem has spatial, temporal, or dependency structure (flows, ownership, states).
- Comparing multiple options or scenarios overloads working memory.
Workflow
- Name the decision or confusion in one line.
- Pick a form: mind map (radial associations), concept map (labeled links), flowchart (process), 2×2 (two-axis trade-off), timeline (sequence), Venn (overlap), or sketchnote (icons + keywords).
- Build the diagram (ASCII, Mermaid, or clear verbal layout if no canvas).
- Read back one insight the picture forces that prose hid; update the diagram if the model shifts.
Examples
Example 1: Architecture debate: draw data flow + trust boundaries before arguing libraries.
Example 2: Three pricing tiers: 2×2 of “self-serve vs assisted” vs “low vs high commitment” to expose gaps.
1---2name: visual-thinking3description: Visual Thinking4---5# Visual Thinking67Externalize structure: relationships, sequence, trade-offs, and overlap are often clearer in space than in prose. Use the lightest diagram that resolves the confusion.89## When to Use10- Textual explanation loops without convergence.11- The problem has spatial, temporal, or dependency structure (flows, ownership, states).12- Comparing multiple options or scenarios overloads working memory.1314## Workflow151. Name the decision or confusion in one line.162. Pick a form: **mind map** (radial associations), **concept map** (labeled links), **flowchart** (process), **2×2** (two-axis trade-off), **timeline** (sequence), **Venn** (overlap), or **sketchnote** (icons + keywords).173. Build the diagram (ASCII, Mermaid, or clear verbal layout if no canvas).184. Read back **one** insight the picture forces that prose hid; update the diagram if the model shifts.1920## Examples21**Example 1:** Architecture debate: draw data flow + trust boundaries before arguing libraries.2223**Example 2:** Three pricing tiers: 2×2 of “self-serve vs assisted” vs “low vs high commitment” to expose gaps.
sethdford