See It Differently

Shift viewpoint, challenge assumptions

steelman

Give the strongest possible version of an argument, even one you disagree with.

Example

Instead of saying

"Present the argument in the best possible light, being as charitable and fair as possible..."

See also

devil's advocate, charitably, evenhandedly

assume the role of

Assigns a persona that shapes expertise, tone, and perspective.

Example

Instead of saying

"Pretend you're someone who invests money and is hard to convince, and look at this..."

See also

act as, from the perspective of, as a

devil's advocate

Argue against a position to test its strength.

Example

Instead of saying

"Tell me what's wrong with this idea..."

See also

critique, challenge, counter

charitably

Interpret in the most favorable way possible.

Example

Instead of saying

"Assume the best intentions when you read this..."

See also

generously, favorably, steelman

reframe

Present the same thing in a different light or context.

Example

Instead of saying

"Look at this same thing but from a different angle..."

See also

rephrase, recast, spin

invert

Flip the question or assumption to find new insights.

Example

Instead of saying

"Ask the opposite question to see what we learn..."

See also

reverse, flip, opposite