Understanding the Six Thinking Hats Technique by Edward De Bono
Classified in Arts and Humanities
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What is it?
It is a technique created by Edward De Bono, a communication tool used worldwide to facilitate the resolution or analysis of problems from different points of view or perspectives. It is a frame of reference for thinking that can incorporate lateral thinking.
The Complete Technique
The complete technique is presented in his book "Six Hats to Think".
For What?
The author proposes a method that allows us to think more effectively. The six hats represent six ways of thinking and should be considered as directions of thought rather than as labels for thinking. That is, hats are used proactively and not reactively. The benefits derived from the use of this technique are three:
- Promote parallel thinking
- Encourage thought in all its breadth
- Separate the ego from performance
How?
Six Hats to Think by De Bono proposes six colors of hats that represent the six directions of thought that we should use when facing a problem.
The method is simple; there are six imaginary hats that each of the participants can put on and take off to indicate the type of thinking they are using, always keeping in mind that the action of putting on and taking off the hat is essential.
When the technique is used in a group, participants must wear the same hat at the same time.
The Six Thinking Styles
The six thinking styles represented by each hat are:
- White Hat: With this thought, we must focus on the available data. See the information we have and learn from it.
- Red Hat: With it, we observe the problems using intuition, feelings, and emotions. The participant exposes their feelings without having to justify them.
- Black Hat: Using this hat, we will launch the thought of judgment and caution, highlighting the negative aspects of the subject.
- Yellow Hat: With this hat, we will think positively; it will help us to see why something will work and why it will offer benefits.
- Green Hat: This is the hat of creativity. Some of the existing techniques to develop creativity can be used at this time.
- Blue Hat: This is the hat of control and management of the thought process. It summarizes what has been said and the conclusions reached.
This technique can be used individually or in groups, and the order of placement of the hats may be different from the one shown.