Generating ideas

Brainstorming

Take a sheet of blank paper and write the subject or question in the middle of the page.

Don't write it at the top of the page: this encourages 'lists'.

Write down everything that comes into your mind about the subject.

Don't edit or question your ideas in any way. Let one thing lead to another.

Use rough notes, abbreviations, or single words.

Don't write in sentences. Let your thoughts flow freely. Irrelevant items can be removed later.

Find order

Take another sheet of paper. Transfer the items you have written, arranging them in groups or some logical order.

Check for possible similarities between items. Try to find or create some shape or structure to fit your ideas.

Delete anything which is not related to the topic. This will help you analyse the ideas you have produced.

If some items belong naturally alongside each other, put them together.

The process is leading towards categorizing your ideas.