Start With A Problem

• Every worthwhile invention solves an existing problem better than other existing solutions. It may only be better in one way, like being cheaper or easier to use, or it may totally revolutionize the field. Simple ways to find a problem are to ask people what they wish they could do -- or didn't have to; to observe systems to pinpoint bottlenecks; or to quickly list 50 things that are annoying or that would be wonderful.
  
  

Cheap, Fast Failures

• The essence of invention is creating and refining unknown solutions. This is a process that inherently involves lots of failure. Inventing can be difficult because of the effort of trying to avoid wasting time on things that won't work. Instead of holding back to avoid looking foolish, dive in and try everything you can think of. Instead of minimizing failure, focus on finding cheap failure and minimizing the time you spend between attempts.
  
  

Brainstorm, Test, Refine, Repeat

• If you get stuck, it's usually because you lack either necessary information or a clear plan. Don't let this delay you. Instead, grab a sheet of paper and list about 20 ideas for the next steps, or sources of needed information. Do this as quickly and nonjudgmentally as you can. The faster you get them out, the sooner you'll hit the right one. When you get a promising possibility, try it. If it works, make it better. If it doesn't, try another one. The sooner you get in the habit of rapidly brainstorming your way through blocks, the easier inventing will become.
  
  

Collaborate

• When you're stuck, ask for help. Each person has a unique way of resolving problems. Including someone else in the process of brainstorming, testing and refining ideas may provide the new angle you needed to find a successful solution. There may also be skills or resources you're lacking that others can supply. Working without the necessary skills and resources, like cutting with a blunt knife, will make your job much harder than it has to be.