Mental frameworks
Work can be complex, but shouldn’t be complicated.
The problem may be complex. How you break it down, explain it and run it is up to you. One worked example per framework.
Pick one up
Problem solving
MECE
When your causes overlap and still leave a gap.
Issue trees
When a room has argued for an hour about different problems.
Levels of agency
Right before you hand a problem to someone else.
One‑way and two‑way doors
Before you call a meeting about a decision you could undo by lunch.
Communication
Bottom line up front
For anything written to someone with a full inbox.
The pyramid principle
When you have fifteen minutes with decision makers.
By monkeys
Before you send anything with “will be” in it.
SCQA
When the reader does not know there is a problem yet.
Project management
A framework you reach for every time is a habit, not a tool.