The Great Mental Models (Vol. 1) — Shane Parrish and Rhiannon Beaubien

 

Rating: ★★★★★

Summary: The Great Mental Models Volume 1 (Canada/US) not only explains what mental models are, but how to get the most out of them. It presents nine fundamental thinking concepts for better understanding reality. 

Each mental model is eloquently illustrated with novel, relevant examples from history.

​Chock-full of takeaways and insights, The Great Mental Models is required reading for anyone looking to optimize their productivity, refine their thinking skills, or improve their ability to make important decisions. 

​Here's an infographic I made summarizing the key concepts of the book:

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Key Quote: “Mental models describe the way the world works. They shape how we think, how we understand, and how we form beliefs. Largely subconscious, mental models operate below the surface. We’re not generally aware of them and yet they’re the reason when we look at a problem we consider some factors relevant and others irrelevant. They are how we infer causality, match patterns, and draw analogies. They are how we think and reason.”