What Is a Mental Model?

Explanation of someone's thought process about how something works in the real world.

A mental model is a framework or concept that helps us understand how the world works. It is a kind of internal symbol or representation of external reality, hypothesized to play a major role in cognition, reasoning and decision-making.

Mental models are how we simplify complexity, why we consider some things more relevant than others, and how we reason. They are the lens through which we see the world and influence how we understand information, perceive situations, and make decisions.

The Role of Mental Models in Perception and Understanding

Mental models shape our perception and understanding by providing us with a simplified representation of complex systems. They help us predict outcomes and make sense of things. For example, if you understand the mental model of supply and demand, you can predict that if a product's demand increases and its supply remains the same, its price will go up.

Mental models also help us understand new information by relating it to what we already know. For instance, if you're learning about the concept of gravity, you might relate it to the mental model of a magnet pulling metal objects towards it.

Differentiating Between Mental Models and Reality

While mental models are incredibly useful, it's important to remember that they are simplifications of reality. They are not complete or entirely accurate representations of the world. They are tools that help us understand and navigate complex systems, but they have their limitations.

For instance, the mental model of a flat Earth was useful for ancient civilizations in navigating their immediate surroundings. However, as our ability to travel and observe the Earth improved, this mental model was updated to a spherical Earth.

It's also important to note that everyone has different mental models based on their unique experiences, knowledge, and perceptions. This is why different people can perceive the same situation in different ways.

In conclusion, mental models are powerful tools that shape how we understand the world and make decisions. They simplify complex systems, help us predict outcomes, and make sense of new information. However, they are simplifications and not complete representations of reality. Understanding this can help us use mental models more effectively and update them when necessary.