Introduction --
Use of this book --
The way the mind works --
Difference between lateral and vertical thinking --
Attitudes towards lateral thinking --
Basic nature of lateral thinking --
The use of lateral thinking --
Techniques --
THe generation of alternatives --
Challenging assumptions --
Innovation --
Suspended judgement --
Design --
Dominant ideas and crucial factors --
Fractionation --
The reversal method --
Brainstorming --
Analogies --
Choice of entry point and attention area --
Random stimulation --
Concepts/divisions/polarization --
The new word po --
Blocked by openness --
Description/ problem solving/ design --
Summary.

Through a series of special techniques, in groups or working alone, Edward de Bono shows us how to look at problems from a variety of angles and in so doing offer up solutions that are as ingenious as they are effective. After reading this book you will become a much more productive and formidable thinker.