Convergent thinking and Divergent thinking and Lateral thinking
Convergent thinking is the process of finding a single answer in a straightforward, logical manner. Divergent thinking is process of considering several answers for problems. Lateral thinking is an indirect process that combines convergent and divergent thinking.
Convergent thinking
When you have to answer multiple-choice tests, quizzes, or standardised tests, you use convergent thinking. Questions in these tests generally have one correct answer. You have to find out the answer through knowledge, logic, or deduction. The answer you produce is either 100% right or 100% wrong. In brief, there are no other possibilities.
Divergent thinking
Divergent thinking is a type of thinking that involves generating creative ideas to explore many possible solutions. It involves opening your mind in various directions and trying different solutions for a problem. Moreover, divergent thinking is spontaneous, free-flowing, and non-linear and produces many unique and original ideas. It involves many possible solutions or ideas in a short amount of time.
Lateral thinking or horizontal thinking is a form of idealisation where designers approach problems by using reasoning that is disruptive or not immediately obvious. They use indirect and creative methods to think outside the box and see problems from radically new angles, gaining insights to help find innovative solutions.