Break the Problem Into Irreducible Facts

Facts are not explanations First-principles floor A first-principles pass names the measurable objects: who, what changed, when it changed, and what constraint matters. It avoids “because” until evidence supports a cause. Inversion check Invert the statement by asking what wording would quietly guarantee a bad solution. Usually it is wording that smuggles in blame, a favorite tool, or a leadership preference. Second-order view Then ask what the second-order effect of acting on a weak statement would be: wasted work, distorted incentives, or a fix that hides the original problem.

Sign up free — one personalized lesson every day, matched to your role and goals.

Already have an account? Sign in