7 Types of Thinking: How to Find Your Thinking Type

Each of the seven main thinking styles has its own benefits and mental processes.

1. 1. Abstract thinking: Abstract thinking involves using symbols and concepts to connect and relate ideas to the big picture. This type of thinking allows you to solve puzzles, understand illusions, and find hidden meanings. Learn more about abstract thinking.
2. 2. Analytical thinking: Analytical thinking revolves around a structured and logical approach to information. Analytical thinkers excel at problem-solving and often use a step-by-step approach in decision-making.
3. 3. Concrete thinking: Concrete thinking (also called literal thinking) is when you think about the world in a very straightforward, logical way. Concrete thinkers look for facts and concrete evidence to support claims and may struggle to develop creative solutions.
4. 4. Convergent thinking: Convergent thinkers find one solution to a problem using the information or resources at hand (rather than thinking of many alternative solutions). This type of thinking helps when you have limited information or in emergency situations.
5. 5. Creative thinking: Creative thinking means finding alternative solutions that may not seem obvious at first glance. Creative thinking skills require you to think outside the box and look past current limitations.
6. 6. Critical thinking: Critical thinkers consider situations carefully and from all angles. Critical thinking skills require you to consider all research, implications, and possible solutions before deciding on the best path forward.
7. 7. Divergent thinking: Divergent thinking, unlike convergent thinking, is about thinking of every possible solution to a problem. Divergent thinkers often use mind mapping (where the problem lies at the center of a web with all possible solutions expanding from that point) in their thinking process.

To determine what type of thinking you predominantly use, consider the following:

• Consider how you react to problems. You most likely already use one (or a few) types of thinking whenever a problem arises. Think about the last time you solved a problem and determine whether you used out-of-the-box solutions or if you jumped to logical steps you could take.
• Gauge how you work with others. You can often tell how people think through their interactions with others. Consider how you collaborate with coworkers or family members. For example, if you want to decide where to go to lunch with a group of people and you first think about restrictions (others’ dietary restrictions, food preferences, distance to everyone’s location, etc.) and then come up with a suggestion, you may be a convergent thinker.
• Note your interests. Your type of thinking may contribute to your interests. For example, if you love free-thinking, creative pursuits (like poetry and art), you may be a creative thinker. If you love puzzles and word games, you may be an abstract thinker. See if you can find a connection between your interests and your thinking style.
• Take an online test. You can take any free online tests to determine what thinking method you most often use.

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