Have everyone in the group blurt out as many ideas pertaining to the subject as they can. Don t worry if any of your ideas might be considered silly. Often, such suggestions turn out to be extremely useful. After you have exhausted your great mental reservoir, review your ideas. Throw out the impractical and unworkable ideas and discuss the good ones.
Helpful hints Using brainstorming in a group that is unfamiliar with the concept can be difficult.
To help break the ice, form a circle and have each person very quickly name something in a category like the world s worst food. This should get people in the mood to brainstorm. Use a large pad of paper or newsprint on an easel, so that all can see the brainstormed ideas. Specify the rules of brainstorming before you begin. Evaluation and criticism are forbidden.