Mental Models
Mental models are simple frameworks for thinking more clearly, such as first principles and inversion. Each page explains the principle, how to apply it and a worked example.
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Reasoning
- First Principles ThinkingBreak a problem down to its basic truths (axioms) and build up from there, rather than reasoning by analogy ("doing what others do").
- Occam's RazorAmong competing hypotheses, prefer the one with the fewest assumptions.
Productivity
- Activation EnergyStarting requires more energy than continuing. The hardest part is beginning.
Problem Solving
Strategy
- Circle of CompetenceKnow what you know, know what you don’t know, and make high-stakes bets only inside your competence.
Decision Making
- Opportunity CostEvery “yes” is also a “no” to the next-best alternative you could have chosen.
Other
What's your IQ?
Mental models sharpen how you reason. The IQ test measures that reasoning directly: 25 visual puzzles.
Take the IQ test
25 questions · about 12 minutes