Random Entry Technique
Obtain a genuinely external entry point to break free of dominant thought patterns using a randomly selected word
The random entry technique exploits the asymmetry of patterns in self-organizing systems. When you approach a focus area from the centre (main track), side-tracks are suppressed and invisible. But if you enter from an unrelated external point (a random word), you are more likely to intersect side-tracks that were inaccessible from the centre. The random word also activates (sensitizes) its own associated patterns, which can intersect productively with the focus area in ways that could never have been planned. The technique is the simplest of de Bono's lateral thinking tools and is directly derived from the self-organizing model of perception.
- Patterns are asymmetric: entry from the periphery reaches tracks inaccessible from the centre
- A random word is a package of functions and associations that sensitizes related patterns
- In a patterning system, any random word has a connection to any focus area—this is mathematically sound, not chance
- The technique only makes sense in a self-organizing system; in table-top logic it would be nonsense
- The entry point must be genuinely random to avoid being chosen by the existing ideas in the field
- State the focus areaBe explicit about the domain or problem where a new idea is needed.Pro tipWrite the focus area down. A stated and written focus maintains attention direction during the random entry process.
- Generate a genuinely random wordOpen a dictionary to any page, go to the fifth word down, take the first noun. Alternatively use a random word generator. Avoid choosing the word—genuine randomness is essential.WarningIf you choose the word (even semi-consciously) you are still on the main track. The randomness is what forces the new entry point.
- Hold the random word in juxtaposition with the focus areaDo not try to force a connection. Instead, let the random word activate its natural associations while keeping the focus area in view. Note any intersections, analogies, or sparked ideas.Pro tipThe word 'traffic lights' activates patterns of control, stop/go, danger zones, sequential permission—all of which can intersect with many focus areas in unexpected ways.
- Move from any intersection to a developed ideaTake any connection that appears, however tenuous, and use movement (not evaluation) to develop it into a concrete idea within the focus area.Pro tipThe cigarette-with-a-red-band idea came almost immediately from 'traffic lights' + 'cigarette'. Speed is not always the measure—deeper intersections sometimes take a few minutes to surface.
Focus area: cigarette (new approach to smoking reduction). Random word: traffic lights. The traffic light activates 'danger zone', 'control', 'staged permission'. Applied to cigarettes: put a red band on the cigarette to mark a danger zone, guilt zone, and decision zone.
Described in the Insight section of the book as an artificially induced insight trigger. De Bono notes that insight occurs when you happen to enter a pattern at a new point that immediately reveals the short path back. The random word is a deliberate mechanism to create such new entry points rather than waiting for chance to provide them.