Convergent Thinking: Definition, Example, and Process
Convergent Thinking: Definition, Example, and Process
Solve your business problems with the power of convergent thinking
Convergent thinking refers to the thought process that involves the logical and analytical evaluation of information to arrive at a single, correct solution. This type of thinking is typically associated with left-brain activity and involves narrowing down options to arrive at the most effective or efficient answer. In contrast, divergent thinking involves generating multiple solutions to a problem, often involving more creative and spontaneous thinking processes.
Keep reading to learn more about convergent thinking, its definition, some examples, and applications for its use.
What is convergent thinking?
Convergent thinking is a cognitive process used to solve problems that have a clear and definitive answer. It involves identifying the correct answer or solution by eliminating incorrect possibilities through a process of logical reasoning.
By focusing on the details of a problem or situation, identifying patterns, and analyzing information, you will arrive at a solution.
Examples of convergent thinking
An example of convergent thinking that almost every student is familiar with is standardized testing. It’s a test taken in school where students are required to choose a single correct answer from a set of options. Other examples of convergent thinking include:
Solving problems, such as finding a solution for a task that went off track
Following a project roadmap
Evaluating staff performance against a set of defined criteria
Analyzing data to identify trends or patterns
Deciding which route to take, when revamping protocols, to align with laws and regulations
Convergent thinking example
In psychology, convergent thinking is often used to measure intelligence or problem-solving abilities. One example of this is the Remote Associates Test (RAT), which presents participants with three words and asks them to identify a fourth word that is related to all three.
For example, if the words were "sense," "courtesy," and "place," the correct answer would be "common" reflecting “common sense,” “common courtesy,” and “commonplace.”
This test measures convergent thinking by assessing participants' ability to identify a single correct answer based on the given information. In the workplace, this skill is valuable for problem-solving, decision-making, and idea generation.
Convergent thinking can take several paths
While convergent and divergent thinking are both important cognitive processes depending on the goals and objectives of a task, convergent thinking allows leaders and team members to use critical thinking skills to reach decisions when a single answer to a problem is needed to fuel success.
Convergent thinking can be a reliable and efficient way of finding a solution to a problem, as it focuses on selecting the best possible option from a set of alternatives.
There are several key components to convergent thinking, including:
1. Focusing on a single correct answer or solution
In many cases, there are specific goals, constraints, and criteria that need to be met, and identifying the best solution requires a structured and analytical approach. By focusing on a single solution, teams can work more efficiently and avoid wasting time and resources on options that are unlikely to be successful. Having a single solution provides clarity and accountability for decision-making. It ensures that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal.
There could also be significant risks associated with certain solutions. By focusing on a single, well-researched option, organizations can better manage and mitigate potential risks. For example, focusing on a single solution can lead to higher customer satisfaction. By identifying the best solution to a customer's problem, companies can demonstrate their expertise and provide a more effective solution to their needs.
2. Analyzing information to identify patterns or trends
When your team is able to find patterns or organizational/industry trends, they are able to make informed decisions, reduce costs, gain a competitive advantage, manage risk, and engage employees based on factual evidence rather than speculation or assumptions. By identifying patterns and trends, organizations can identify areas for improvement, set goals, and develop effective strategies. You’ll also be able to identify areas where costs can be reduced or resources can be better allocated. This can lead to significant cost savings and increased efficiency. Your company can also stay ahead of the competition by analyzing trends.
3. Eliminating incorrect possibilities through logical reasoning
By using a systematic approach to evaluating different options, it’s possible to arrive at a single, correct solution that is based on sound reasoning and analysis. In order to arrive at the correct solution, it’s important to first clearly define the problem that needs to be solved. This involves identifying the key issues, constraints, and objectives. Once the problem has been defined, the next step is to generate a range of possible solutions or alternatives. This can be done through brainstorming or other creative techniques.
After generating a range of alternatives, the next step is to evaluate each option using logical reasoning. This involves considering the pros and cons of each alternative, as well as their feasibility, practicality, and potential impact. Based on the evaluation of each alternative, those that are not viable or feasible are eliminated. This can be done through a process of elimination or by using other logical reasoning techniques. Once all incorrect possibilities have been discarded, the remaining options are evaluated again to determine which one is the best solution to the problem at hand.
4. Using past knowledge and experience to inform decision-making
When faced with a problem, draw on past experience to identify similar situations and how they were solved. This can help you to generate ideas and solutions that have been proven to work in the past. Analogies are a powerful way to use past knowledge and experience to facilitate convergent thinking. By comparing a current problem to a past situation or experience, you can identify similarities and use that knowledge to generate new ideas and solutions. After a project or task is completed, conduct a retrospective analysis to identify what worked well and what didn't. Use this knowledge to inform future decision-making and problem-solving.
Following a structured approach to problem-solving
Following a defined approach will improve your efficiency and effectiveness. You’ll end up with decisions based on relevant information by evaluating all possible solutions and selecting the most viable solution. Here are 5 steps you can take to employ convergent thinking at work:
Define the problem: Clearly define the problem you’re trying to solve. Ask questions such as "what is the issue?" and "what is the root cause?" to ensure you have a clear understanding of the problem.
Gather information: Gather all the relevant information related to the problem. This could include data, reports, feedback, or any other relevant information.
Identify potential solutions: Brainstorm potential solutions to the problem. Consider the pros and cons of each solution and evaluate them against each other.
Evaluate solutions: Evaluate each solution against a set of criteria, such as feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and impact. Determine the most viable solutions.
Implement a solution: Select the most viable solution and develop a plan to implement it. This may involve coordinating with other stakeholders, developing a timeline, and outlining resources required.
Key takeaways
By using a structured approach to problem solving and decision making, individuals and teams can use convergent thinking to arrive at informed decisions based on sound reasoning and analysis. Developing convergent thinking skills can lead to more effective resolutions and improved outcomes in the workplace.
Convergent thinking is a soft skill that employers desire. If you’re well-versed in using convergent thinking, it should be reflected in your resume. The ZipJob team will review your resume for free to make sure that you’re properly presenting your convergent thinking skills.
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Written by
Marsha Hebert, Professional Resume Writer
Marsha is a resume writer with a strong background in marketing and writing. After completing a Business Marketing degree, she discovered that she could combine her passion for writing with a natural talent for marketing. For more than 10 years, Marsha has helped companies and individuals market themselves. Read more advice from Marsha on ZipJob's blog.
