Reverse brainstorming is used when it is difficult to identify solutions to the problem directly. It involves combining brainstorming and reversal techniques.

Start with one of two reverse questions.

• Instead of asking "How do I solve or prevent this problem?" ask, "How could I cause the problem?"
• Instead of asking "How do I achieve these results?" ask, "How could I achieve the opposite?"

• Identify the problem and write it down.
• Reverse the problem. Ask how you can cause the problem (instead of how you can solve the problem)
• Brainstorm the reverse problem to produce reverse solution ideas. Accept all ideas at this stage.
• Now reverse your brainstormed ideas into solution ideas for the original problem or challenge.
• Evaluate these solution ideas. Can you see a potential solution?