Product

PM mental models

Mental models are simple expressions of complex processes or relationships.

Demi Wilkinson

Demi Wilkinson

Author

16 Jan 2022
5 min read
PM mental models

Product managers make dozens of decisions every day. Mental models provide frameworks for thinking through complex problems consistently and effectively.

First Principles Thinking: Break down problems to their fundamental truths and build up from there.

The 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle): 80% of effects come from 20% of causes. Focus on the vital few features that drive the majority of value.

Opportunity Cost: Every choice has a cost - the value of the next best alternative.

Second-Order Thinking: Consider the consequences of consequences. What happens next? And what happens after that?

Demi Wilkinson

Written by Demi Wilkinson

Demi Wilkinson is a product professional with years of experience in the tech industry. Passionate about sharing knowledge and helping others grow in their careers.