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IdeationBeginner

Brain writing

Brain writing is a technique where participants generate ideas in writing instead of speaking them aloud. This approach can help quieter individuals contribute their thoughts without the pressure of verbal sharing.

Duration
15m–1h
Group size
Any people
CCBY-SA 4.0

How to run it

  1. 1

    Gather a group of participants for the brain writing session.

  2. 2

    Set up a comfortable space for everyone to write.

  3. 3

    As the facilitator, present the problem you want to address.

  4. 4

    Allow each participant to write down 3 ideas in 2 minutes.

  5. 5

    After 2 minutes, have participants pass their sheets to the left.

  6. 6

    Participants read what is already written and add their own ideas beneath.

  7. 7

    Continue circulating the sheets for as many rounds as there are participants.

  8. 8

    In each round, increase the time allowed by one extra minute to encourage more interaction.

Tips

  • Encourage participants to expand creatively on others' ideas.

  • Keep the atmosphere relaxed to foster free thinking.

  • Remind everyone that all ideas are valid and welcome, no matter how unconventional.

Variations

You can adapt the method by allowing themes for each round or incorporating different media like drawing for visual thinkers.

Where it fits

team brainstorming sessionproblem-solving workshopproduct development meeting
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Method descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from SessionLab. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Brain writing — Facilitation Method | Workshop Weaver