Mental Models

Apply structured thinking frameworks to decisions, problems, and planning.

When This Triggers

• "Help me think through X"
• "What mental model should I use?"
• "Apply first principles to this"
• "Do a pre-mortem on this plan"
• "I need to analyze this decision"
• Any specific model name (SWOT, 5 Whys, etc.)

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Workflow

Step 1: Run Mental Models Scanner

Run the script to get all available models:

python 00-system/mental-models/scripts/select_mental_models.py --format brief

This returns JSON with all 59 models across 12 categories.

Optional filters:

# Filter by category
python 00-system/mental-models/scripts/select_mental_models.py --category cognitive --format brief

# List format (names only, grouped by category)
python 00-system/mental-models/scripts/select_mental_models.py --format list

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Step 2: Identify Context and Offer Options

Based on user's situation, offer 2-3 relevant models:

For decisions: Decision Matrix, Pre-Mortem, Cost-Benefit, Inversion For problems: First Principles, Root Cause (5 Whys), Fishbone For planning: Scenario Planning, Stakeholder Mapping, OKR For creativity: Design Thinking, SCAMPER, Lateral Thinking For risk: Pre-Mortem, Force Field, Red Team, Black Swan For communication: Pyramid Principle, BLUF, Steel Manning For learning: Feynman Technique, Deliberate Practice

Present options with brief descriptions (3-7 words each).

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Step 3: Load Specific Model File

After user selects, load the individual model file:

File structure: 00-system/mental-models/models/{category}/{model-slug}.md

Category	Path
Cognitive	models/cognitive/first-principles.md, inversion.md, etc.
Collaborative	models/collaborative/six-thinking-hats.md, mece.md, etc.
Diagnostic	models/diagnostic/pre-mortem.md, five-whys.md, etc.
Strategic	models/strategic/scenario-planning.md, ooda-loop.md, etc. ...