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Also known as: first principles, fundamental analysis

First Principles Thinking

TechnicalFrameworksStrategies

Definition

First Principles Thinking: First principles thinking breaks problems down to their fundamental truths, then reasons up from there—rather than reasoning by analogy to how things have been done before. It enables breakthrough solutions by questioning assumptions and rebuilding understanding from the ground up.

Example Usage

“Instead of iterating on existing CRM features, we asked 'What does sales actually need?' First principles led to a radically simpler product.”

Common Misconceptions

Use first principles for every decision. It's time-intensive; reserve for significant strategic questions.
Ignore what exists. Learn from existing solutions, but question whether their constraints apply to you.
First principles always yields novel solutions. Sometimes conventional wisdom is right; that's also a valid conclusion.

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