B2–C1 · FRM · XTHFRM002

Before we solve [X], we need to decide what counts as [Y]

A reusable frame from “Problem framing and reframing”. Define the problem before solving it, expose hidden assumptions, and choose a more useful frame.

EN · EnglishBefore we solve [X], we need to decide what counts as [Y].
DE · GermanBevor wir [X] lösen, müssen wir festlegen, was als [Y] gilt.

Try variations2 · more examples

  1. RU · Translation

    Прежде чем оптимизировать процесс, нужно определить, какое время ответа считается приемлемым.

    EN · English

    Before  we  optimise the process,  we  need to  decide  what  counts as acceptable response time.

    DE · German

    Bevor  wir  den Prozess  optimieren,  müssen  wir  festlegen,  was als akzeptable Reaktionszeit  gilt.

  2. RU · Translation

    Прежде чем переделывать страницу, нужно определить, что считается успешным обнаружением контента.

    EN · English

    Before  we  redesign the page,  we  need to  decide  what  counts as successful discovery.

    DE · German

    Bevor  wir  die Seite neu  gestalten,  müssen  wir  festlegen,  was als erfolgreiche Auffindbarkeit  gilt.

Reasoning move · Frame

Frame

What it does

Make the success criterion explicit before comparing solutions.

Pattern graph

Continue with nearby patterns

Related reasoning patterns4

Nearby structures let you perform the same reasoning move in a different form.

  1. A more useful way to frame [X] is as [Y], rather than [Z].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set
  2. The constraint we should design around is [X], not [Y].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set
  3. If we define the problem as [X], we will optimise for [Y].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set
  4. The question changes once we distinguish [X] from [Y].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set

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