The key to the skill of the Observer is curiosity. Observers collect details in a mental "basket" and from the collection of the small things create breakthrough ideas. Observers notice the differences and disconnections. Paying attention to things others might miss leads to the ideas of the Observer.

Alchemists generate ideas by connecting different areas that interest them. In the connection, a breakthrough idea is born. Always searching to see what they can bring together, Alchemists use similarities – analogies – as the fire of their imagination.

The Fool uses three related skills to find new ideas – inversion, absurdity and perseverance. By turning things upside down, pushing notions to the extreme and continuing to try in the face of adversity, Fools navigate their imagination to conjure up great ideas. They honor the ‘random’ influence knowing that uncertainty is the field for invention.

Sages navigate their imagination using the skill of simplification. When they encounter ideas, they ask themselves "What is the heart of the issue?" By coalescing the complex, or reducing things to their essential nature, Sages find breakthrough ideas. The Sage is also able to translate that insight into a story that can instruct and inspire.