Thinking in Writing
Here is a summary of the key points and nuggets of knowledge from the webpage:
Ref: How to think in writing - by Henrik Karlsson
2025-02-26, Update: I decided to change to [write with Vim]() to freely use my thoughts, ideas, brainstorming, and imagination in writing along with AI-logical assistant.
The author explores how writing can be used as a tool for thinking and refining one’s ideas. He discusses the mental processes involved in translating fluid thoughts into rigid written form, and how this can reveal flaws and lead to deeper understanding.
Key Points:
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Writing solidifies and clarifies thoughts: When writing, thoughts that were previously “flighty and shapeless” become “pinned to the table” and can be examined.
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Existing writing advice is limited: The author found that typical writing advice does not fully capture the cognitive benefits of the writing process.
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Two parts: The article covers both basic mental models for using writing to gain clarity, as well as more advanced techniques for deep creative work.
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Embracing imperfection: The author advocates making definite claims and then “unfolding” them to reveal flaws, as this leads to improved understanding.
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Counterexamples drive progress: Considering counterexamples, both local and global, helps refine one’s arguments and replace flawed mental models.
Nuggets of Knowledge:
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“By making things more rigid, it’s easier to break them.” - Insight from Patrick Collison on how writing can enable critical examination of ideas.
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“Forcing the diffuse ideas and impressions in your head into a definite statement is an art form.” - The skill of translating fluid thoughts into concrete claims.
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“Unfolding a claim into an explanation… spreads it on a ‘wider front’ so that the criticism has more targets.” - A technique for probing the reasoning behind a conclusion.
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“Local counterexamples help you improve your explanation and get a better understanding.” - How finding exceptions can refine one’s mental models.