Six Thinking Hats 

 

 Early in the 1980’s, Dr. Edward de Bono developed the Six Thinking Hats method 
of conflict resolution/problem solving. This method is a framework for discussing issues, 
one aspect at a time. 

 

The six hats represent six ways in which to discuss an issue. They are: 

 

. 
White Hat: This is the hat of facts, figures, information needs, and gaps. 
. 
Red Hat: This is the hat of intuition, feelings, and emotions. 
. 
Purple Hat: This is the hat of judgment and caution. 
. 
Yellow Hat: This is the hat of the positive and logical. 
. 
Green Hat: This is the hat of creativity, alternatives, proposals, and 
brainstorming. 
. 
Blue Hat: This is the hat of facilitation or process. 


 

Dr. de Bono has created a network of authorized trainers to introduce the Six Thinking 
Hats concept. In the United States, Advanced Practical Thinking (APPT) organizes the 
trainers and supplies the only training materials written and authorized by Dr. de Bono.