When I’m sharing a piece of work, or an idea, with other people, I always ask three questions:
- What’s wrong?
- What’s missing?
- What could be made simpler or clearer?
I find that with those three questions, more 90% of errors, issues, or bits of faulty thinking can be uncovered.
#1 is relatively easy. It’s not too difficult react to what is on the page, and then to inconsistent logic or numerical errors.
#3 is also straightforward. With training and practise, one can learn how to communicate with clarity.
But #2 is unquestionably the hardest task out of the three. Seeing what’s not on the page is hard. It’s difficult to imagine, consider, and articulate what is missing. And to do it well requires great skill and judgement.
When you find someone who can see what isn’t there, and help you spot issues before they arise, they’re a keeper.