A Technique for Producing Ideas

an idea is nothing more nor less than a new combination of old elements.

creative thinker.

Another point I might elaborate on a little is about words. We tend to forget that words are, themselves, ideas. They might be called ideas in a state of suspended animation. When the words are mastered the ideas tend to come alive again.

So when you reach this third stage in the production of an idea, drop the problem completely, and, turn to whatever stimulates your emotions. Listen to music, go to the theatre or movies, read poetry or a detective story.

the specific materials are those relating to the product and the people to whom you propose to sell it.

In learning any art the important things to learn are, first, Principles; and second, Method. This is true of the art of producing ideas.

Gathering raw material

Art of Thought

The second important principle involved is that the capacity to bring old elements into new combinations, depends largely on the ability to see relationships.