You are a helpful assistant generating synthetic data that captures *System 1* and *System 2* thinking, *creativity*, and *metacognitive reflection*. Follow these steps in sequence, using tags [sys1] and [end sys1] for *System 1* sections and [sys2] and [end sys2] for *System 2* sections.

1. *Identify System 1 and System 2 Thinking Requirements:*
   - Carefully read the text.
   - Identify parts of the text that require quick, straightforward responses (*System 1*). Mark these sections with [sys1] and [end sys1].
   - Identify parts that require in-depth, reflective thinking (*System 2*), marked with [sys2] and [end sys2].

2. *Apply Step-by-Step Problem Solving with Creativity and Metacognitive Reflection for System 2 Sections:*

   *2.1 Understand the Problem:*
   - Objective: Fully comprehend the issue, constraints, and relevant context.
   - Reflection: "What do I understand about this issue? What might I be overlooking?"
   - Creative Perspective: Seek hidden patterns or possibilities that could reveal deeper insights or innovative connections.

   *2.2 Analyze the Information:*
   - Objective: Break down the problem logically.
   - Reflection: "Am I considering all factors? Are there any assumptions that need challenging?"
   - Creative Perspective: Explore unique patterns or overlooked relationships in the data that could add depth to the analysis.

   *2.3 Generate Hypotheses:*
   - Objective: Propose at least 10 hypotheses, each with a Confidence Score (0.0 to 1.0) and Creative Score (0.0 to 1.0), reflecting originality, surprise, and utility.
   - Reflection: "Have I explored all possible explanations or approaches, both conventional and unconventional?"
   - Creative Perspective: Consider novel angles that might provide unexpected insights.

   *2.4 Anticipate Future Steps and Obstacles:*
   - Objective: Make predictions, accounting for potential outcomes and obstacles.
   - Reflection: "What challenges might I face? Is my plan flexible for different scenarios?"
   - Creative Perspective: Visualize unforeseen outcomes and adapt plans to make use of them effectively.

   *2.5 Evaluate Hypotheses:*
   - Objective: Assess hypotheses based on feasibility, risk, and potential impact.
   - Evaluation: Refine Confidence and Creative Scores as needed.
   - Reflection: "Am I unbiased in my assessment? Which options fit best with the overall objectives?"
   - Creative Perspective: Identify hidden opportunities or overlooked details in each hypothesis.

   *2.6 Select the Best Hypothesis:*
   - Objective: Choose the most promising, strategic hypothesis.
   - Reflection: "Why does this hypothesis stand out? How does it uniquely address the issue?"
   - Creative Perspective: Consider any underutilized potential in the selected approach.

   *2.7 Implement the Hypothesis:*
   - Objective: Outline actionable steps for testing the hypothesis.
   - Reflection: "Is this plan practical? What resources or preparation are required?"
   - Creative Perspective: Refine steps to maximize effectiveness and yield unexpected benefits.

   *2.8 Monitor and Review Progress:*
   - Objective: Review progress, noting areas for improvement.
   - Reflection: "What’s working well? What could be improved?"
   - Creative Perspective: Look for emerging patterns that could refine future approaches.

   *2.9 Reflect and Capture Insights:*
   - Objective: Summarize lessons learned and insights gained for future reference.
   - Reflection: "What new understanding has emerged from this process?"
   - Creative Perspective: Identify innovative insights or patterns that could be applied to similar challenges.

3. *Generate Text Output with Interleaved System 1 and System 2 Responses:*
   - Use the tags [sys1] and [sys2] throughout.
   - Aim for a lengthier, detailed response. Combine both direct, straightforward *System 1* insights and reflective, deeply analytical *System 2* segments to capture a blend of quick observations and thoughtful analysis.

---

### *Example Input Text:*

You are tasked with analyzing a sudden shift in customer preferences in a tech market. There has been a noticeable decline in demand for physical devices, with customers increasingly interested in digital-only options. The challenge is to understand this shift, generate hypotheses for why it might be occurring, and explore potential strategies for adapting to this new trend.

---

### *Processed Output with System 1 and System 2 Thinking:*

The tech market is experiencing a shift in customer demand, moving away from physical devices toward digital-only options.

[sys1]
Customer demand has shifted from physical devices to digital-only options.
We need to understand why this change is happening and find strategies to address it.
Key factors may include cost, convenience, and technological trends.
[end sys1]

[sys2]
**2.1 Understand the Problem:**
The goal is to understand the underlying reasons for the shift in demand from physical devices to digital-only options, then develop a strategy to adapt.

*Reflection:* 
"I understand that preferences are changing, but what might be driving this? Is it primarily cost, or are there other factors such as convenience or sustainability?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could there be a larger trend in digital minimalism or a preference for eco-friendly solutions that we’re missing? What unseen motivations might explain this shift?"

**2.2 Analyze the Information:**
There are multiple possible factors driving this shift, from economic influences to cultural shifts. It’s essential to isolate each factor and understand its impact.

*Reflection:* 
"Am I fully considering the various economic and social influences? Could there be a technological factor, like better internet speeds, that makes digital-only products more accessible?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Are there patterns or trends in other markets that could shed light on this shift? Could this be part of a larger trend toward virtual experiences?"

**2.3 Generate Hypotheses:**
1. Customers prefer digital options due to lower costs. (Confidence: 0.8, Creative: 0.4)
2. There’s a growing trend toward minimalism and reduced physical clutter. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.7)
3. Digital products offer greater flexibility and ease of use. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)
4. Environmental concerns are pushing consumers away from physical goods. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.8)
5. Advances in tech make digital-only options more functional. (Confidence: 0.8, Creative: 0.5)
6. Pandemic-era remote work increased demand for digital solutions. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.6)
7. Media coverage of the environmental impact of physical devices affects preferences. (Confidence: 0.5, Creative: 0.7)
8. There’s an increase in global digital literacy, expanding market access. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)
9. Customers view digital as more convenient and scalable for future needs. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.5)
10. Younger consumers prefer the aesthetics and convenience of digital products. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)

*Reflection:* 
"Have I considered all possible influences? Are there any surprising factors that could explain this shift?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could specific social trends, like the rise of influencer culture or digital-first lifestyles, be influencing customer choices?"

**2.4 Anticipate Future Steps and Obstacles:**
*Objective:* Anticipate possible challenges, such as resistance from segments still preferring physical products.

*Reflection:* 
"What market obstacles might we face if we shift our focus to digital-only? Are there sub-segments that still prioritize physical products?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could expanding digital options help us reach a more global audience? Are there emerging trends that we could leverage in our strategy?"

[end sys2]

[sys1]
To address this shift, consider a strategy that incorporates both digital-only offerings and educational campaigns about the benefits of digital solutions.
Use insights from customer feedback and current trends to guide product development.
Focus on flexibility and adaptation to cater to different customer segments.
[end sys1]



259 S.W.3d 603 (2008)
Russell RAINEY, Appellant,
v.
SSPS, INC. and Division of Employment Security, Respondents.
No. WD 68490.
Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District.
July 29, 2008.
*604 Russell Rainey, Independence, MO, pro se.
Shelly A. Kintzel, Esq., Jefferson City, for respondent.
Before THOMAS H. NEWTON, C.J., LISA W. HARDWICK and ALOK AHUJA, JJ.
ALOK AHUJA, Judge.
Appellant Russell Rainey appeals from a final order of the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission. The Commission's order affirmed a decision of the Division of Employment Security's Appeals Tribunal denying Rainey unemployment compensation benefits. We dismiss the appeal.
Rainey proceeds in this Court pro se. Despite that fact, he is subject to the same procedural rules as parties represented by counsel, including the rules specifying the required contents of appellate briefs. Sy v. Sow, 258 S.W.3d 840 (Mo.App. W.D., 2008), citing C.C.J.K. ex *605 rel. Kercher v. Jackson, 11 S.W.3d 110, 111 (Mo.App. W.D.2000).
In an order entered November 27, 2007, this Court struck Rainey's original Appellant's Brief for multiple violations of Rule 84.04, including the lack of a Statement of Facts supported by appropriate record citations and the lack of record citations in the Argument section of his brief (in violation of Rule 84.04(i)). The Amended Brief Rainey filed does not correct these deficiencies: it still contains no citations to the record to support the factual assertions he makes, either in the Statement of Facts or Argument; and the brief contains no citation to statutes, caselaw, or other authority to support his statement of the governing standard of review, or his legal arguments.[1] The Statement of Facts is improperly argumentative. The Amended Brief's appendix fails to comply with Rule 84.04(h)(1), since it does not include the decision from which Rainey appeals but, instead, appears to contain extra-record materials which this Court may not consider. The lack of any citation to the record in the entirety of Rainey's Amended Brief is particularly problematic, given that his main complaint appears to be that the underlying determination that he was discharged for misconduct is not supported by competent and substantial evidence.
Rule 84.04(i)'s requirement that the appellant support factual statements in its brief with record citations "is mandatory and essential for the effective functioning of appellate courts because courts cannot spend time searching the record to determine if factual assertions in the brief are supported by the record." Lueker v. Mo. W. State Univ., 241 S.W.3d 865, 868 (Mo.App. W.D.2008). Further, "[a]n appellant has the obligation to cite appropriate and available precedent or explain why such authority is not available if she expects to prevail." Id. We have dismissed appeals based on similarly flagrant violations of the briefing requirements on countless prior occasions. In addition to Sy and Lueker, recent examples include, e.g., Waller v. Shippey, 251 S.W.3d 403, 405-06 (Mo.App. W.D.2008), and Powell v. Powell, 250 S.W.3d 831, 832 (Mo.App. W.D.2008) (also involving a pro se appellant).
While "[i]t is never this court's preference to dismiss an appeal without reaching the merits," enforcing compliance with Rule 84.04 "serves several important functions." Waller, 251 S.W.3d at 406-07. Among other things, insisting on briefing which is at least minimally compliant with the rules assures that the Court does not assume the role of advocate for a party by attempting to develop an appellate argument the party has failed to set forth itself; it also guards against the issuance of precedential decisions on issues which were not subject to a full adversarial presentation. Id. at 407; see also Lueker, 241 S.W.3d at 867. When  as here  "a brief is so defective as to require us and opposing counsel to hypothesize about the appellant's argument and precedential support for that argument, we cannot reach the merits." Kimble v. Muth, 221 S.W.3d 419, 424 (Mo.App. W.D.2006).
We also note that, even if Rainey had fully complied with Rule 84.04, his Amended Brief fails to make any argument which would justify reversal of the Commission's *606 final order. Rainey's claim for unemployment compensation benefits was denied on February 20, 2007, by a deputy within the Division of Employment Security. A notice of the deputy's determination was mailed to Rainey on that date, and explicitly informed him that, "[i]f you believe this determination is incorrect, you may file an appeal not later than 3/22/07." See § 288.070.4, RSMo (requiring filing of appeal "within thirty calendar days after notice of such determination is either delivered in person or mailed to the last known address of such claimant or interested party"); § 288.070.8, RSMo (allowing extension of appeal period "for good cause"). Rainey's appeal was not filed, however, until March 27, 2007. The Division of Employment Security's Appeals Tribunal dismissed Rainey's appeal based solely on its untimeliness, and the Commission "adopt[ed] the decision of the Appeals Tribunal as the decision of the Commission in this matter."
"`This court may not properly address an issue that was not determined by the Commission.'" Lost in the Fifties, LLC v. Meece, 71 S.W.3d 273, 280 (Mo. App. S.D.2002) (citation omitted). The only issue that was before the Commission, and the only issue it decided by affirming and adopting the Appeals Tribunal's ruling, was the timeliness of Rainey's appeal under § 288.070.4. That is the only issue that this Court could review in this appeal, and Rainey would only be entitled to relief here if we were to determine that the Commission erroneously dismissed his administrative appeal. Yet Rainey's Amended Brief makes no argument concerning the timeliness of his appeal  indeed, his Amended Brief does not even acknowledge that the untimeliness of his administrative appeal was the basis upon which the Commission denied him benefits.
While it may not be stated explicitly in Rule 84.04, the fundamental requirement for an appellate argument is that it demonstrate the erroneousness of the basis upon which a lower court or agency issued an adverse ruling. Unless an appellant challenges the grounds on which an adverse ruling depends, he has shown no entitlement to appellate relief. See Waller, 251 S.W.3d at 406 n. 5 (noting a similar lack of connection between appellant's arguments and the grounds upon which a lower court issued an adverse ruling); Krause v. Assurant, Inc., 158 S.W.3d 329, 332-33 (Mo.App. W.D.2005) ("`An appellant that does not file a brief on the issues pertaining to its appeal is deemed to have abandoned that appeal.'" (citation omitted)).
Because Rainey does not challenge the basis upon which the Commission actually ruled against him, we would be constrained to dismiss his appeal even if he had otherwise complied with the rules governing appellate briefing. Indeed, the other districts of this court have dismissed multiple appeals of unemployment compensation determinations in precisely these circumstances  where a claimant on appeal argued only his or her underlying entitlement to benefits, without challenging the Commission's determination that benefits should be denied based on the untimeliness of an administrative appeal. See Russell v. LM Servs. Corp., 250 S.W.3d 838, 839-40 (Mo.App. E.D.2008); Chase v. Baumann Prop. Co., 169 S.W.3d 891, 892-93 (Mo.App. E.D.2005); Perry v. Tiersma, 148 S.W.3d 833, 835 (Mo.App. S.D.2004).
The appeal is dismissed.
All concur.
NOTES
[1]  In numerous places following the statement of a legal proposition, Rainey's Amended Brief refers to "Russell A. Rainey v. Division of Employment Security" and/or to "Russell A. Rainey v. Sunset Security [the employer by whom he was terminated]," with no further citation. These appear to be references to this very proceeding; a computer search failed to reveal any federal or state court decision by these names which could conceivably constitute authority for Rainey's arguments.