Separate facts, predictions and interpretations · D1.11

Ask one useful question about an assumption

A conclusion feels certain but you want to examine how you reached it.

Everyday practice

Try these steps

1. Write the conclusion and choose one question: 'What evidence supports it?', 'What would change my mind?', or 'What else could explain this?'
2. Answer using information you have, marking guesses as guesses.
3. Decide whether to revise the conclusion, seek a specific fact, or leave the uncertainty open.

An example

What would change my mind about this plan? A clear estimate of the time required would help.

Reflect

Did the question reveal a useful gap rather than start an endless debate?

Next time

Use another question only if there is a practical reason to continue.