What are divergent and convergent thinking? Provide examples on how these relate to creativity.

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Divergent thinking is a mental approach that takes many paths to solutions, as opposed to a single logical path to one best solution (which characterizes convergent thinking), and it is a key feature of creativity (Runco & Acar, 2012). For example, the scoring for the alternate uses task rewards divergent thinking with points for generating many different and original answers across various categories of use (Silvia et al., 2008). Divergent thought is helpful for creative solutions, and contrasts with the convergent thinking needed to solve problems with straightforward or single best answers.

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For example, divergent thinking might help an architect consider novel designs for a new bridge. Later these designs might be tested with convergent thinking that applies formulas for calculating how much weight each bridge design can handle before collapsing. Recall that truly creative works must be both novel and useful. Divergent thinking is needed for the novelty, but some 'solutions' will later be dismissed for the bad ideas they are.

What Are Divergent and Convergent Thinking? Provide Examples on How