Techniques of Lateral Thinking

Techniques of Lateral Thinking

Lateral thinking means solving problems in new and creative ways instead of using the usual step-by-step logic. Edward de Bono suggests several techniques that help us think differently.

1. Generation of Alternatives

This technique tells us not to accept the first idea that comes to mind. We must look at a problem from many angles.

Example: In the crowded train example, the problem is not the women or the bags, but the larger issue — lack of space in trains. When we create many possible solutions, we get better ideas.

2. Challenging Assumptions

Many times we assume things without checking them. Lateral thinking asks us to question these assumptions.

Example: In the lift puzzle, students assumed the man was normal. But the real reason he got off at the 10th floor was because he was too short to reach the 15th-floor button.
The common method is asking “Why?” repeatedly to find the real cause.

3. Creativity

Creativity in lateral thinking means producing new and useful ideas. It follows simple steps:

1. Understand the problem

2. Generate many ideas

3. Select the best one

For example, planning a new energy-saving idea or making an awareness poster requires creativity.

4. Design Process

This is a systematic way of creating or improving something. Steps include:

1. Suggest a project (e.g., design an apple-picking machine)

2. List all functions needed (picking, sorting, collecting)

3. Evaluate and improve the design

Asking “Why?” helps us refine the design and remove faults.

5. Dominant Ideas and Crucial Factors

Every situation has a main idea called the dominant idea.

Example: In the Trichy police example, the dominant idea was reducing tension.

Crucial factors are details that cannot be ignored.

Example: In the train case, peak hours, children, and bags are crucial factors.

Conclusion:

Lateral-thinking techniques help people think beyond routine logic. By generating alternatives, questioning assumptions, using creativity, following the design process, and identifying dominant ideas and crucial factors, we learn to solve real-life problems more effectively and imaginatively.