Divergent Thinking
"Uses your imagination"
Divergent thinking is… a thought process or method used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions. It typically occurs in a spontaneous, free-flowing, ‘non-linear’ manner, such that many ideas are generated in an emergent cognitive fashion. Many possible solutions are explored in a short amount of time, and unexpected connections are drawn. The quantity of ideas is more important than the quality at this stage.
Also known as: Creative thinking, Brainstorming
Convergent Thinking
"Makes logical sense"
Convergent thinking is… a type of thinking that focuses on coming up with the single, well-established answer to a problem. It often requires critical thinking and consciously using standards and probabilities to form judgements to arrive at an answer. Remember, the conclusion may or may not be the ‘correct’ solution.
Also known as: Critical/analytical/linear thinking
Lateral Thinking
"Uses both divergent and convergent thinking"
Lateral thinking is… solving problems through an indirect, creative approach that utilizes a combination of known facts and new ideas to create possible solutions that may not otherwise be obtainable by using only traditional step-by-step logic or off-the-wall ideas. While convergent thinking is primarily concerned with judging the truth value of statements and seeking errors, lateral thinking uses the movement from one known idea to creating new ideas.
Also known as: “Thinking outside the box”
SOURCES
“Three Modes of Thought”
https://www.teachthought.com/critical-thinking/3-modes-of-thought-divergent-convergent-thinking/
“Thinking Modes that Create Fruitful Ideation Sessions”
https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/article/understand-the-elements-and-thinking-modes-that-create-fruitful-ideation-sessions