Convergent thinking

Convergent thinking a term coined by J. P Guilford in the 1950s in the context of his research on creativity.

While divergent thinking allows the individuals to find numerous and original ideas, convergent thinking encompasses thought processes which aim at finding the one right, best or conventional answer to a problem.

The objective of convergent thinking is to generate a conventional, consensually agreed-upon solution to a problem.

The problem presents as an initial triggering mechanism or process input – be it a test prompt, and assignment question or an event – that generates the production of a correct or an incorrect cognitions.

The idea of convergent thinking is based on the assumption that there is only one correct answer to a problem and that it must be found through reference to declarative knowledge.

Convergent processes move from data, clues, or parts of the problem to a specific idea. They are distinct from divergent processes in that usually convergent processes lead to one idea, rather than a large number, and in that they focus on correct or conventional rather than original ideas.
Convergent thinking

Divergent thinking

Divergent thinking is a process of thinking in which many different ideas or solution are generated from a single idea or problem. This may take a number of directions and also it consists of generation of multiple responses.

It is involves thinking widely; like the light bouncing off a convex mirror bulging outwards, the person thinking spreads out into the universe in all directions.

In divergent thinking there is no single correct response, the value of responses depends upon it suitability, usefulness and meaningfulness.

The search to uncover the root cause problem is considered a divergent thinking process because it requires the application of creativity first to separate symptoms from root problems and then to adequately define the problem in a way that leads to a resolution.

One important characteristics of divergent thinking is that it is closely related to creative behavior and some authors use it in place of creative thinking. Divergent thinking is the central unit in the creative process. Divergent thinking test are often used, though of course they really just estimate the potential for creative thought.
Divergent thinking

Definition of creative thinking

Thinking most generally, any covert cognitive or mental manipulation of ideas, images, symbols, words, propositions, memories, concepts, precepts, beliefs or intentions. Creative thinking is imaginative thinking directed toward innovation. It is based on questions that ask ‘what if’, ‘why’ and ‘why not’; how and how else.

It is the multi-dimensional set of components that lead an individual or a group to the generation of new ideas that have values. It should be noted that the elements of uniqueness of solution and value of results are incorporated into the definition.

Creative thinking is grounded in the consideration of alternatives, possibilities, other ways of imagination and doing things. The key to creative thinking is imagination.

Creative thinking is associated with imagination, innovation, originality, lateral thinking, and divergent thinking.

For a person with some natural creative thinking skills, it naturally occurs even if he or she is not well aware of it.
Definition of creative thinking