Why Styles of Thinking Matter More Than You Realise? One of the most underrated professional skills is not what we know, but how we think. The lens through which we analyse, decide, and create often determines the quality of our outcomes more than knowledge itself. When you master different styles of thinking, you don’t just react—you respond with clarity, creativity, and confidence.
In this article, we explore the 7 styles of thinking—Critical, Analytical, Abstract, Creative, Concrete, Convergent, and Divergent—and how you can use them to activate your full brainpower in both personal and professional life.
Why Styles of Thinking Matter More Than You Realise?
Imagine two people facing the same problem: one sees only the obstacles, while the other spots opportunities. The difference isn’t intelligence—it’s thinking style. Your ability to switch between different styles of thinking can:
- Boost productivity and problem-solving skills
- Improve decision-making under uncertainty
- Fuel innovation and creativity
- Strengthen leadership and teamwork
- Reduce stress when facing complex challenges
✨ The truth is, no single style is superior. The real strength lies in adaptability.
■ Tackling ambiguity? Lean on divergent and creative thinking.
■ Facing a crisis? Concrete and convergent thinking may serve you better.
■ Working on strategy? Abstract, critical, and analytical thinking become powerful tools.
Let’s break down the 7 styles of thinking with examples and activation tips.
7 Styles of Thinking
1. Critical Thinking – Questioning and Validating
Definition: Critical thinking is the process of evaluating information carefully, posing relevant questions, and testing assumptions before concluding.
Why it matters: Among all the styles of thinking, critical thinking acts as a safeguard against misinformation. It equips professionals to make sound, evidence-based judgments.
Example:
A manager reviewing a proposal doesn’t rush in. Instead, she questions the data sources, compares alternatives, and ensures risks are addressed.
Tips to strengthen:
- Practice the 5 Whys technique to dig deeper into problems.
- Cross-check information before acting on it.
- Challenge your own assumptions regularly.
7 Key Benefits of Critical Thinking | Why Should You Embrace Critical Thinking?
2. Analytical Thinking – Breaking Down Problems
Definition: Analytical thinking involves deconstructing complex problems into smaller, manageable parts to understand patterns, causes, and effects.
Why it matters: This style of thinking is vital for strategy, technical problem-solving, and data-driven decisions.
Example:
A data analyst spots a sales decline. Instead of blaming the economy, she divides the issue into customer behaviour, pricing, and product quality—identifying the true cause.
Tips to strengthen:
- Use flowcharts and mind maps.
- Practice problem decomposition: break big tasks into smaller steps.
- Look for root causes instead of surface-level symptoms.
3. Abstract Thinking – Seeing the Big Picture
Definition: Abstract thinking goes beyond surface facts, connecting ideas and envisioning long-term possibilities.
Why it matters: Among the different styles of thinking, abstract thinking is crucial for vision-setting, leadership, and strategy.
Example:
An entrepreneur visualises how artificial intelligence could transform healthcare five years from now—not just focusing on current challenges but imagining long-term solutions.
Tips to strengthen:
- Engage in “what if” exercises to stretch your imagination.
- Read philosophy, metaphors, and allegories to train your brain.
- Regularly ask: “How does this connect to the bigger picture?”
4. Creative Thinking – Reimagining Possibilities
Definition: Creative thinking is the ability to generate bold, unconventional ideas and solutions.
Why it matters: This style of thinking fuels innovation and helps professionals adapt to new challenges.
Example:
During the pandemic, restaurants pivoted to DIY meal kits—a creative solution that helped keep businesses alive when dine-in services were restricted.
Tips to strengthen:
- Use brainstorming sessions with no judgment.
- Experiment with the SCAMPER technique (Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, Reverse).
- Allow curiosity and free play—creativity thrives outside rigid rules.
5. Concrete Thinking – Staying Grounded
Definition: Concrete thinking focuses on facts, practical details, and step-by-step execution.
Why it matters: While abstract thinking looks at the bigger picture, this style of thinking ensures that ideas are grounded in reality.
Example:
A project leader ensures deadlines, budgets, and checklists are followed so that a brilliant product concept doesn’t remain only an idea.
Tips to strengthen:
- Use checklists and clear action plans.
- Ask: “What is the first practical step I can take today?”
- Break large goals into daily micro-tasks.
6. Convergent Thinking – Narrowing to the Best Choice
Definition: Convergent thinking is about narrowing options to find the most practical and logical solution.
Why it matters: This style of thinking ensures efficiency and focused decision-making under pressure.
Example:
A hiring manager reviews 200 resumes but uses clear criteria to narrow down to 5 top candidates for interviews.
Tips to strengthen:
- Use decision matrices to compare options.
- Set clear criteria before evaluating choices.
- Avoid overthinking—convergent thinking is about focus.
7. Divergent Thinking – Expanding Possibilities
Definition: Divergent thinking involves exploring multiple perspectives and generating many possible solutions.
Why it matters: Among all the styles of thinking, this one is essential for brainstorming and innovation.
Example:
A design team generates 50 possible app features before deciding which ones to develop.
Tips to strengthen:
- Use mind mapping for idea expansion.
- Encourage “wild ideas” in group discussions.
- Replace “This won’t work” with “What if we tried…?”
Image credits & References: Dr. Jeetender kumar
How to Activate All Styles of Thinking for Full Brainpower?
Most people lean toward one or two preferred styles of thinking—maybe you’re naturally analytical or highly creative. But true brainpower comes from mental flexibility—the ability to switch modes depending on the situation. Here’s how you can train your mind to use all seven styles effectively:
1. Develop Self-Awareness of Your Dominant Thinking Style
You can’t improve what you don’t know. Start by identifying your natural thinking habits.
- Example: Do you prefer facts and details (concrete) or big ideas (abstract)? Do you question assumptions (critical) or generate endless ideas (divergent)?
- How to practice: Take thinking style assessments or reflect on how you typically solve problems. Write down which styles you overuse and which you avoid.
2. Practice Situational Thinking – Match Style to the Challenge
Different challenges require different thinking approaches. The key is to ask: “What type of thinking does this problem need?”
- Example:
- Brainstorming a new campaign? Use divergent and creative thinking.
- Troubleshooting a technical glitch? Use analytical and critical thinking.
- Implementing a project plan? Rely on concrete and convergent thinking.
- How to practice: Before tackling a task, pause and identify the most suitable thinking style.
3. Strengthen Weak Styles Through Deliberate Practice
Like muscles, thinking styles grow stronger with exercise.
- Example: If you struggle with abstract thinking, practice looking at everyday issues through metaphors (“My work schedule is like…”) or long-term scenarios (“In 5 years, this could become…”).
- How to practice:
- For critical thinking → Analyse news articles for bias.
- For creative thinking → Try the “30 circles” exercise (turn 30 blank circles into unique drawings).
- For concrete thinking → Create detailed checklists for simple tasks.
4. Use Mental Switching Exercises
Training your brain to shift between different thinking styles builds flexibility.
- Example: Start with divergent thinking—list 10 wild solutions to a problem. Then switch to convergent thinking—narrow down to 2 realistic ones.
- How to practice: Set time blocks where you deliberately switch approaches (e.g., 10 minutes creative, 10 minutes analytical).
5. Build a Thinking-Rich Environment
Surround yourself with stimuli and people that challenge multiple thinking styles.
- Example: Reading philosophy sparks abstract thought; working with engineers sharpens analytical thought; collaborating with artists fuels creativity.
- How to practice:
- Rotate between analytical books, creative hobbies, and philosophical discussions.
- Join groups where diverse thinking styles are celebrated.
6. Encourage Team Synergy
No one excels at all 7 styles equally, but teams can. Leverage group strengths to activate all perspectives.
- Example: In a product design meeting—
- Divergent thinkers generate ideas,
- Creative thinkers push boundaries,
- Critical thinkers filter flaws,
- Concrete thinkers build the action plan.
- How to practice: Map out your team’s dominant thinking styles and assign roles accordingly.
7. Reflect and Adapt Continuously
Reflection helps you refine your thinking process. After completing a project, ask:
- Did I use the right styles for the situation?
- Could switching to another style have led to a better outcome?
- Which style felt hardest to use, and how can I practice it?
Example: After a failed campaign, a marketing manager realised she relied too much on creative thinking and ignored critical analysis. By reflecting, she learned to balance both for future projects.
Bonus Tip – Combine Styles for Maximum Impact
The best results often come from blending multiple styles:
- Creative + Divergent = innovation spark
- Analytical + Critical = logical problem-solving
- Abstract + Concrete = vision with execution
- Convergent + Critical = sharp decision-making
Example: Elon Musk combines abstract vision (colonising Mars) with concrete planning (SpaceX launch schedules). This fusion turns big dreams into practical achievements.
In short, to activate all styles of thinking, you must know your strengths, train your weaknesses, match the style to the situation, and switch flexibly. Over time, this creates mental agility—the secret to unlocking your full brainpower.
Conclusion
The 7 styles of thinking—Critical, Analytical, Abstract, Creative, Concrete, Convergent, and Divergent—are like tools in your mental toolbox. Some people rely heavily on one or two, but the most effective professionals know how to adapt their thinking style to the situation. By practising flexibility, you can unlock your full brainpower, solve problems more effectively, and thrive in both career and life.
Which of these styles of thinking comes most naturally to you? And which one do you need to strengthen to grow further?
FAQs – Styles of Thinking
1. Can anyone develop all 7 styles of thinking?
Yes. While some styles come naturally, all can be strengthened with practice and awareness.
2. Which styles of thinking are best for leadership?
Leaders need a mix—abstract for vision, critical for judgment, and concrete for execution.
3. How do divergent and convergent thinking complement each other?
Divergent thinking generates many ideas, while convergent thinking narrows them down to the best solution. Both are needed in problem-solving.
4. What style of thinking is best for innovation?
Creative and divergent thinking are most valuable for innovation, but analytical thinking ensures ideas are practical.
5. How can I identify my dominant style of thinking?
Notice how you approach challenges—do you focus on details, big ideas, creativity, or validation? Self-reflection and feedback help you identify your strengths.
Read more about
- Critical thinking
- Analytical thinking
- Abstract thinking
- Creative thinking
- Concrete thinking
- Convergent thinking
- Divergent thinking
Thank you for taking the time to explore this post. I hope you found it both insightful and enjoyable.
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PVM
Mathukutty P. V. is the founder of Simply Life Tips, a blogger, content writer, influencer, and YouTuber passionate about learning and sharing. Guided by “Simple Living, Creative Thinking,” he believes in the power of knowledge sharing and lifelong learning.
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