moai-foundation-thinking

Use the 7-step critical evaluation framework: restate the claim, assess evidence quality, detect logical fallacies, expose hidden assumptions, generate alternatives, check for contradictions, and verify the burden of proof matches the claim's magnitude.

Use the diverge-converge framework: gather requirements, generate 20-50 ideas without criticism, cluster them into 4-8 themes, score clusters with weighted criteria like feasibility and impact, then document the top 3-5 candidates with validation plans.

First principles reasoning strips away analogies and precedent to break a problem into fundamental truths. The framework runs five phases: assumption audit, decomposition, alternative generation, weighted trade-off analysis, and a cognitive bias check before finalizing.

Use deep questioning when exploring unfamiliar domains or unclear requirements, since its 6 layers uncover root causes, constraints, and user needs. Use critical evaluation when a concrete proposal already exists and needs rigorous flaw detection.

Run the cognitive bias checklist covering anchoring, confirmation bias, sunk cost fallacy, availability heuristic, and overconfidence. Techniques include pre-mortem analysis, assigning a devil's advocate, and comparing against base rates from similar past decisions.

Skip the frameworks for simple tasks affecting one or two files where direct implementation is appropriate. Reserve full framework usage for architecture changes, and use lighter combinations like partial deep questioning for feature additions.