Abstraction Ladder

TL;DR An abstraction ladder is a great framework to guide thinking as it helps us put problems in context. You can use an abstraction ladder when you’re trying to figure out where to start with a big problem, or use it with more narrow problems to try and figure out how to gain more traction. 

  • Begin building an abstraction ladder by starting with what you know. Choose a clear topic to explore
  • Abstract topics belong higher on the ladder and tend to require more development
  • Concrete topics belong lower on the ladder and tend to require more examination
  • Work to develop your thoughts and ideas into a bigger context. As you do this, you'll be able to take a different look at your topic and move around on the abstraction ladder

Jump right into the Miro Template

An abstraction ladder is one of the most powerful tools anyone can learn. This exercise provides a great framework to guide thinking as it helps us put problems in context. You can use an abstraction ladder when you’re trying to figure out where to start with a big problem, or use it with more narrow problems to try and figure out how to gain more traction.

To create an abstraction ladder, you have to start with what you know. With your team, agree on a clear topic to explore. If the topic is more abstract, it belongs higher on the ladder. More concrete topics move down the ladder. Determine where your topic fits best on the ladder. 


Abstract Topics

  • These tend to belong higher on the ladder
  • Abstract topics can move up or down on the ladder the more you develop them


Concrete Topics

    • These typically belong lower on the ladder
    • Concrete topics can move up or down on the ladder the more you examine them

    Next, examine your topic and move it up or down from its starting point on the ladder. You can explore your topic further by moving it. You might even skip to one end of the ladder and fill the other steps in later!

    Jump right into the Miro Template


    Final Thoughts
    Abstraction ladders can help you to put your thoughts and ideas into a bigger context, allowing us to see what the patterns are, what system is embedded within, and see concretely how things can play out in a specific context. Have fun moving your ideas up and down the ladder!

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    Adam Paulisick

    Founder at SKILLBUILDER & maadlabs.io (fmr @BCG @Nielsen — acquired 3x). Prof @teppercmu, MHCI & exec ed at Gates School of Comp Sci. Founder @TheShopPgh

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