Creative Thinking
Connect the nine dots

Solution: The solution to this is simple. How do you connect all nine dots, using only one straight line? You need a pen with a bigger point, big enough to run across all nine points in one line! Now, you may think this is a bit silly. But there is a point to all of this (please excuse the pun!). Here's the point... Our assumptions limit our thinking When we try to solve problems we unconsciously bring all sorts of assumptions and preconditions to our thinking, these limit our thinking and therefore our ability to come up with solutions. When you were trying to solve the problem using four straight lines you were probably working on the assumption that the lines had to go through the centre of the dots. That's fine when you have four straight lines to work with - but you had to overcome that assumption to find a better solution, using only three straight lines. And of course, to get the final solution you have to overcome another assumption, about the size of your pen. When trying to find solutions, be aware of your assumptions. They are probably holding back from a great discovery! Brand Manual More articles Subscribe 'How To Build Your Total Brand' takes you step-by-step through the brand management process, putting you on track to maximize the strength of your brand and the value of your business. Click here for details