Think From Every Angle

What do the six hats represent?

Six Thinking Hats separates different modes of thinking during a discussion. White covers facts, red feelings, black caution, yellow benefits, green ideas, and blue the process. Separating them gives each type of contribution a clear place.

Use it when a discussion gets stuck

The framework helps when participants keep mixing evidence, objections, and personal reactions. It supports deliberate exploration of a decision, especially when the group needs options beyond a simple yes or no.

Keep each perspective distinct

1. Write a precise question. Define the decision and its scope before generating perspectives.
2. Keep white-hat facts traceable. Label unknowns and assumptions instead of filling gaps with plausible numbers.
3. Allow red-hat reactions. Record feelings as feelings without treating them as evidence.
4. Give caution and benefits equal attention. Explore both risks and potential value before choosing a course.
5. Finish with the blue hat. Name the next step, the information required, and the person responsible for moving the decision forward.

Draft a board for the decision at hand

MyMap organizes your decision brief into six labeled perspectives. The example considers launching a new product line, with sections for facts, reactions, risks, upsides, alternatives, and next steps. Replace its scenario figures with evidence from your own situation.