The Computing Series

F1 — The 12 Mental Models

# Model One-Line
MM1 Transformation Computation is input → function → output
MM2 Search Finding the best state in a large space
MM3 Optimisation Best solution under constraints
MM4 Flow Systems defined by how data moves
MM5 State Systems remember things
MM6 Networks Relationships are first-class
MM7 Feedback Systems react to their own output
MM8 Concurrency Multiple actors + shared state
MM9 Redundancy Copies protect against loss
MM10 Layered Abstraction Reason at any level without knowing layers beneath
MM11 Indirection Any problem solved by adding a level of indirection
MM12 Tradeoffs Every decision is optimisation under constraints

Use: Apply all 12 to any unfamiliar system. The model you were not using is usually where the problem hides.


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