Thinking Dimensions

With structured thinking, you methodically break down problems and solve them piece by piece, rather than worrying, relying on past assumptions, or shrugging in absolute cluelessness. Neil deGrasse Tyson once told a hypothetical story about asking two job candidates the same question: How tall is the spire on the building they're in? In this scenario, one candidate happens to know the answer. The other steps outside, measures the building's shadow against her own, and gives a rough estimate. "Who are you gonna hire?" Tyson said. "I'm hiring the person who figured it out. 'Cause that person knows how to use the mind in a way not previously engaged."

Anyone can improve their structured thinking with practice. The best thing to do is ask yourself pointless questions.