Definition

In the context of critical thinking, the key question is the one question whose answer will provide the most value to the actor who asks this question.

Value itself refers to the net set of rewards and drawbacks taken holistically.

Examples of Key Questions

1. What are the important tasks to do next?
2. Why are our sales going down?
3. Where should we go on vacation this summer?
4. Why do people join cults?
5. What is the best strategy for the board game called “go.”
6. How much will a new building cost?
7. How can I make my dream of playing guitar really well come true.

Rationale

1. Focus: Keeps the actor focused on one thing, the key question, as opposed to scattering their efforts among many things.

2. Maximize Rewards: By definition, the key question if answered gives you the most rewards with the fewest drawbacks.

3. Collaboration: Keeps everyone in the group working on the same thing which is answering the key question.

How to Find the Key Question.

The method is to apply diamond logic. Here is how. As usual, do this quickly say less than five minutes.

1. Generating Question: Ask this question or similar to self or group: “What is the most useful question or issue that we might address right now?

2. Brainstorming: Come up with as many answers as possible. Note: Is is super useful to use the set common inquiry questions as a framework for selecting possible questions from.

3. List: Write down you question options. Number them. Note: I rarely skip writing because writing is so helpful for good thinking.

4. Selection: Select the best option from your list of many options.

5. Decision: Write down your choice. Briefly list the rationale that justifies your choice.

Summary

A key question refer to the most useful question to answer.

Identifying the key question provides several benefits: focus, most benefits, and clarity.

To select the key question, apply the diamond method. Also, asking the common inquiry questions is useful.