MENTAL MODEL · M8138

Prototype Multiplication

TechnicalHigh supportResearch Methods

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Updated 2026-08-22

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INTRODUCTION

English translation pending.

CORE DEFINITION

The method rejects the search for a single best prototype. It calls instead for multiple differentiated prototypes built around deliberately different assumptions, which are then compared and whose best elements are crossed to produce the final solution. The logic is that a first idea is anchored and average, and that variety among the prototypes is what supplies the raw material for a combination better than any single one of them.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

- Build more than one: make two or three prototypes rather than one refined version. - Vary on purpose: give each prototype a different governing assumption. - Cross the best: combine the strongest elements instead of choosing one whole.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

A first prototype is constrained by anchoring on the first framing that came to mind, and refining it only improves that one framing. Multiple differentiated prototypes explore different regions of the solution space, and comparing them exposes which elements carry the value, which is what makes a hybrid better than any original.

MINIMUM ACTION

In progress 0/1

Practice this model in one real situation:

Build a first prototype of the solution. 2. Deliberately build two or three more from different starting assumptions. 3. Compare their strengths and weaknesses side by side. 4. Combine the best elements into a final design that beats each original.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

Learning progress0%

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Source support: Explicit

link
zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%96%AF%E5%9D%A6%E7%A6%8F%E8%AE%BE%E8%AE%A1%E6%80%9D%E7%BB%B4%E8%AF%BEZH · Explicit
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