3 Modes Of Thinking

Glossary

3 Modes of Thinking: Understanding Problem-Solving Approaches in 2026

How do you tackle challenges in your work? This question is likely to arise during a job interview and may leave you pondering its intent. While you might believe you solve problems effectively, interviewers seek to understand your problem-solving approach and thought processes.

Key Takeaways:

The three modes of thinking are convergent thinking, divergent thinking, and lateral thinking.
Convergent thinking involves identifying a single, logical solution to a problem.
Divergent thinking entails generating multiple solutions or ideas for a given problem.
Lateral thinking is an innovative approach that combines elements of both convergent and divergent thinking.

3 Modes Of Thinking: Lateral, Divergent & Convergent Thought

In This Article

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What Are the Modes of Thinking?
Convergent Thinking
Divergent Thinking
Lateral Thinking Process
The Changing Thought Process Frontier
How to Answer the Interview Question
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What Are the Modes of Thinking?

The concepts of different modes of thinking were introduced by Joy Paul Guilford, a prominent figure in American Psychology. His work began in the 1950s with theories on creativity and evolved to include the notion of divergent thinking, ultimately shaping our current understanding of these modes.

The three modes of thinking are:

Convergent Thinking
Divergent Thinking
Lateral Thinking

Each mode represents a distinct approach to problem-solving, warranting deeper exploration.

Convergent Thinking

Convergent thinking is best illustrated through straightforward problems, like basic math: 2 + 2 = 4. The goal here is to arrive at one correct answer through logical reasoning. When faced with the equation, you visualize two items on one side and two more joining them, leading you to the answer of four.

This method may seem mundane, but it exemplifies the logic required to determine outcomes when combining quantities. In the professional realm, most problems are more complex. However, when all participants employ convergent thinking, they should arrive at a uniform answer, as there is typically one definitive solution.

Fields such as accounting often rely on convergent thinking. While accountants may have different approaches, they would converge on the same answer when given precise parameters. This is the essence of convergent thinking.

Also known as critical thinking, vertical thinking, analytical thinking, and linear thinking, convergent thinking remains a vital skill in many industries.

Divergent Thinking

Divergent thinking, according to Guilford, generates creative ideas by exploring numerous solutions. Imagine the earlier math problem, 2 + 2—how can we challenge the notion that it equals four? Engage your imagination to find alternative interpretations.

Consider two male rabbits and two female rabbits; soon, you could have far more than four rabbits. Or envision combining two drops of water with two others, leading to one large drop instead of four separate ones.

Divergent thinking allows for a variety of potential answers, which is crucial in business. This mindset fosters preemptive problem-solving and innovative ideas before challenges arise.

Divergent thinking is often referred to as creative thinking or horizontal thinking.

Lateral Thinking Process

Lateral thinking integrates both convergent and divergent thinking. Many associate lateral thought with “out-of-the-box thinking,” a helpful framework for understanding this approach.

Solutions that fall within traditional parameters represent inside-the-box thinking, while outside-the-box thinking broadens the scope of possibilities and concepts.

Interestingly, lateral thinking was introduced by Edward de Bono in 1967, showcasing the ongoing evolution of thought processes. This method combines the structured nature of convergent thinking with the open-endedness of divergent thinking.

Individuals employing lateral thinking can recognize the correct answers of convergent thought while also exploring divergent possibilities, effectively synthesizing both methods. This capability is highly valued in business settings, as such individuals are often seen as more versatile thinkers.

The Changing Thought Process Frontier

Historically, individuals were often categorized strictly as either convergent or divergent thinkers, with one type frequently viewed as superior to the other.

In the early days of these concepts, convergent thinkers were sometimes perceived as less creative, while divergent thinkers may have been considered scattered and impractical. However, both styles possess unique strengths that are valuable in different contexts.

The emergence of lateral thinking highlights the potential to combine both styles, fostering a more holistic understanding of thought processes. The debate around thinking styles is far from over; ongoing research continues to reveal the nuances of cognitive functioning, emphasizing that most people utilize a blend of these approaches.

How to Answer the Interview Question

Returning to that interview question about how you solve problems, consider your approach. Do you seek the definitive answer using accumulated knowledge, or do you explore multiple perspectives to identify the best solution?

Perhaps you prefer to break down a question into various potential solutions and analyze each for its outcomes.

To effectively answer this question, you must understand your thought process. While an interviewer may not delve deeply into your cognitive style, indicating whether you lean toward convergent, divergent, or lateral thinking can be a strong response. If they require more insight, they will likely ask follow-up questions.

Interestingly, how you respond might reveal more about your thought process than your actual answer. For instance, if you quickly declare yourself a “divergent thinker,” you may inadvertently communicate a convergent mindset, as this statement suggests a definitive self-assessment.

To prepare for this interview question, consider the field you are applying to. Are they in search of innovative thinkers, or do they prioritize precise answers with minimal margin for error? Understanding the desired thinking style can help you tailor your response effectively.

Glossary

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Author

Kristin Kizer

Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.

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