# Framework for analysis and decision-making We want to maximise the chances of success through a better understanding of our world. To have a good understanding of the world we need to gather and organize information and knowledge, through reading, conversation or observation. There is a close link between the scientific method, the craft of intelligence analysis, investment analysis and logical thinking processes. You could broadly classify the objective of each of these as "knowledge creation", analysis and decision making. I have tried to tease out generalities between these fields and create a model of the research and analysis process. This allows us to then further develop practical tools and systems for research and analysis. No matter what field you're in, there are common elements to the analysis process: - Start with a purpose such as a question that needs to be answered, or a decision you need to make. - Observe and gather data/information/evidence - Organize the information and create connections between pieces of information - create hypotheses for cause and effect, or how the system works - make a decision based on the most likely of all the hypotheses - Present the analysis, process and decision through effective communication (writing, video, pictures, charts) - track the predictions and evaluating the different hypotheses ![[Analysis Process Diagrams#Diagrams for the Analysis Process]] ### Psychology and the Brain Analysis happens primarily through our thoughts so we need to consider its role. [[The role of psychology in research, analysis and decisions]] ## Related - [[Belief Formation]] - [[Psychology of Intelligence Analysis]] - [[Tradecraft Primer - Structured Techniques Pamphlet]] - [[Rationality and the Reflective Mind]] - [[The Logical Thinking Process]] - [[Thinking Fast and Slow]] - [[The Goal]] - [[It's Not Luck]] - [[How to Take Smart Notes]] - [[Logical Thinking]] - [[Scientific Method]] - [[Science]] - [[Geopolitics]] - [[Intelligence Analysis]] - [[Journalism]]