Conceptsubtracting
Conceptsubtracting is a term used to describe a problem-solving and design approach that deliberately removes or temporarily excludes concepts from consideration in order to simplify analysis and reveal core structure or assumptions. The idea is to reduce cognitive load and surface dependencies by focusing on a minimal subset of relevant concepts, then testing whether the remaining concepts suffice to achieve the desired outcome.
The term is used in contemporary cognitive science, design discourse, and methodological discussions as a descriptive
- Clarify objectives and success criteria.
- Compile a comprehensive list of concepts involved.
- Systematically remove nonessential concepts and observe the impact.
- Iterate by reintroducing concepts to test necessity.
- Validate results against real-world constraints and goals.
A typical workflow starts with problem framing, followed by an inventory of concepts, then a controlled
Conceptsubtracting is used to reduce feature bloat in product design, distill topics in education, isolate latent
It can improve clarity and focus, but risks oversimplification or removing concepts that later prove essential.
Subtractivist design, concept mapping, cognitive load theory, minimal viable product.