students gathered round a table designing

First principles thinking is the key to unlocking innovation! By breaking down problems into fundamental principles, we can develop new solutions and build a generation of innovators.

Reasoning from first principles is a powerful approach to design and innovation which involves breaking down a problem into its most fundamental elements and building up a solution from there. It’s a repeatedly successful practice which can be applied to all areas of investigation from science to software. From business strategy to classroom education. It cuts to the heart of invention, innovation and creative inquiry. In this article, we will explore how it’s been applied, give some practical steps for using the approach yourself and provide links to further reading.

With first principles, you are not only taking apart the problem but also disassembling the inventer, breaking down the assumptions, beliefs, and habits that have brought about a kind of behavioural blindness.

How Has Design by First Principles Been Used Successfully?

One of the most well-known examples of a company that uses this approach is Tesla, led by CEO Elon Musk, has used first principles design in developing its electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and solar products. By applying first principles, Tesla has been able to create innovative and highly efficient products that have disrupted the automotive and energy industries.

One of the key examples of Tesla’s use of first principles design is in the development of its electric motors. Instead of relying on existing designs, the company’s engineers went back to first principles and developed a new type of motor that is more efficient and consumes less power. This led to the development of the Tesla Model S, which has a range of over 300 miles per charge, significantly higher than most other electric vehicles on the market.

Another example is the development of Tesla’s energy storage systems, specifically the Powerwall and Powerpack. The company’s engineers used first principles to design a system that is highly efficient and can be easily integrated into existing power grids. This has led to a significant reduction in the cost of energy storage and has made it possible for more people to have access to clean and reliable energy.

Tesla has also used first principles design in developing its solar products. For instance, the company’s solar roof tiles are designed to look like traditional roof tiles but are made of solar cells. The engineers used first principles to design a highly efficient product that can be easily integrated into existing homes, making it possible for more people to have access to clean and reliable energy.

In addition, Tesla’s use of first principles has also led to significant cost savings. For example, the company’s engineers used first principles to design a battery pack for the Model S that is significantly more cost-effective than existing designs. This has made it possible for Tesla to offer its vehicles at a price that is competitive with traditional gasoline-powered cars.

How to apply first principles thinking to a real-world example problem

One real-life example of a design problem that can be approached using first principles is the design of a more efficient solar panel. Solar panels currently on the market typically have an efficiency rate of around 15-20%, meaning that only 15-20% of the sunlight that hits the panel is converted into usable energy.

Using first principles, the design problem can be broken down into its most fundamental principles. The first principle to consider is the basic process of converting sunlight into electricity. The second principle is to identify the limitations and constraints of current solar panel technology. The third principle is to identify the materials and technologies that can be used to improve the efficiency of solar panels.

By breaking down the problem into its fundamental principles, the design team can then build up a solution from there. For example, the team may decide to research and experiment with new materials, such as perovskite solar cells, which have been shown to have an efficiency rate of over 25%. The team may also decide to experiment with new technologies, such as multi-junction solar cells, which can improve the overall efficiency of the panel by stacking different layers of solar cells on top of each other.

The team could also consider other factors that affect solar panel efficiency, such as temperature and cleaning, and design the panel with those factors in mind.

By applying reasoning by first principles, the design team can create a solar panel that is more efficient than current models on the market. This approach can lead to a significant reduction in the cost of solar energy and make it more accessible to more people.

It’s important to note that this is just a hypothetical example, and the specific techniques and materials used would depend on the research, resources and technology available. However, the general idea of using first principles to break down the problem, identify fundamental principles and build up a solution from there remains the same.

Tesla’s use of first principles design has been a critical factor in the company’s success. By applying this approach, the company has developed innovative and highly efficient products that have disrupted the automotive and energy industries. This approach has also led to significant cost savings, making it possible for more people to have access to clean and reliable energy. The company’s success serves as a powerful example of how the first principles of design can be applied in practice to create disruptive and sustainable solutions.

Unlock your full potential as an engineer and break free from limiting perceptions, habits, and assumptions with first principles of design. Dive deep into the problem at hand and emerge with a fresh perspective, ready to tackle even the most complex challenges with a renewed sense of focus and creativity.

Practical steps you can take to work through a problem using first principles thinking:

  1. Identify the problem you want to solve.
  2. Break down the problem into its most fundamental principles.
  3. Identify any assumptions or limiting factors that are currently in place.
  4. Research and gather information about the problem and potential solutions.
  5. Identify the materials, tools, and technologies that can be used to create a solution.
  6. Build a model or prototype of your solution.
  7. Test and iterate on your solution until it meets the desired outcome.
  8. Continuously review and optimize the solution to achieve the best results
  9. Communicate your solution clearly to the relevant parties for implementation
  10. Reflect on the process, and how it can be applied to other problems in the future

It’s important to note that this process may vary depending on the problem and context, but the general idea of breaking down a problem to its fundamental principles, researching and gathering information, and iterating on a solution until it meets the desired outcome remains the same.

Some tips for applying first principles thinking in a classroom context for children:

  1. Encourage children to ask questions and to question assumptions.
  2. Teach the importance of breaking down problems into their fundamental principles.
  3. Provide them with real-world examples of first principles thinking and how they can be applied to solve problems.
  4. Encourage thinking creatively and coming up with new and innovative solutions.
  5. Give them the opportunity to experiment and test their ideas through hands-on activities and projects.
  6. Provide resources and materials that they can use to research and gather information about the problem they are trying to solve.
  7. Encourage them to think independently and to work collaboratively with their peers.
  8. Provide opportunities for children to present their findings and solutions to the class and to receive feedback from their peers and teachers.
  9. Use age-appropriate examples and problems that are relatable to the children
  10. Create an open-minded and positive environment for learning, experimentation, and questioning
  11. Encourage reflection within their learning process, and how they can apply what they’ve practiced to other problems in the future
  12. Use games and activities that help them understand and apply first principles thinking in a fun and engaging way
  13. Encourage exploration and experimentation with new materials and technologies that can help them solve problems
  14. Provide feedback and guidance as they work through the problem-solving process.
  15. Encourage them to think critically and to evaluate their own solutions and the solutions of their peers.

These are some of the very techniques the team here at STEAMShip use to develop classroom workshops, learning materials and schemes of work. If you’d like to hear more about the great work we do with schools we’d love to chat with you and share our enthusiasm, so get in touch with us.

Recommended books for learning about and practising first principles thinking.

  • “First Principles Thinking: Building Winning Products Using First Principles Thinking” by Ajitesh Shukla is an excellent resource for anyone looking to understand and apply the principles of first principles thinking to their work. The book provides a clear and comprehensive introduction to the concept of first principles and how they can be applied to the design and development of products. Shukla does an excellent job of explaining the fundamental principles of first principles thinking in a way that is easy to understand and apply. He provides a step-by-step guide to the process of breaking down a problem to its most fundamental principles and building up a solution from there. Throughout the book, he uses real-world examples to illustrate how this approach has been used to create successful products in a variety of industries. One of the strengths of the book is its focus on practical application. Shukla provides a wealth of practical tips and techniques for applying first principles thinking to the design and development of products. He also includes a number of case studies and examples of companies that have successfully used this approach in their work. Overall, “First Principles Thinking: Building Winning Products Using First Principles Thinking” is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand and apply the principles of first principles thinking to their work. Whether you are an engineer, designer, or product manager, this book will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to create successful products using first principles thinking.
  • “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of human thought and decision-making. The book provides a detailed analysis of the two systems of thinking that govern our behaviour: System 1, which is fast, intuitive and emotional, and System 2, which is slower, more deliberate, and logical. One of the strengths of the book is the way it provides an in-depth understanding of how our minds work and how our biases can affect our decision-making. The book explains how these biases can lead us to make decisions based on assumptions and shortcuts, rather than reasoning from first principles. By understanding these biases, readers can learn how to recognize when they might be falling prey to them, and instead, make decisions by breaking down the problem to its fundamental principles, and building up a solution from there. Another strength of the book is the way it provides practical advice on how to think more rationally and make better decisions. The book explains how by being aware of our biases, we can overcome them and make more objective decisions. It also provides techniques for slowing down and thinking more deliberately, which are essential when reasoning from first principles.The book is well-researched and backed by numerous studies and experiments. Kahneman’s writing is clear and engaging, and he explains complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand. It provides a wealth of examples and case studies that illustrate the concepts discussed in the book.In conclusion, “Thinking, Fast and Slow” is an excellent book that provides a wealth of insights into how our minds work and how we make decisions. It provides a detailed understanding of how our biases can affect our decision-making and how to overcome them. The book is well-researched, and well-written and provides practical advice on how to think more rationally and make better decisions. By understanding the concepts discussed in the book, readers can develop the skills to reason from first principles, and make more objective decisions.
  • “Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future” by Peter Thiel is a must-read for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and innovation. In this book, Thiel, a successful entrepreneur, venture capitalist and co-founder of PayPal, shares his thoughts on how to create and build a successful startup. One of the strengths of the book is Thiel’s unique perspective. He draws on his own experience as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist to provide insights and practical advice on how to create and build a successful startup. He also provides a number of case studies and examples of companies that have successfully followed his advice. The book is well-written, engaging, and easy to understand. Thiel’s writing style is clear, concise and engaging making it accessible to a wide range of readers. He also provides a wealth of examples and case studies that illustrate his points and make the book more relatable. Another strength of the book is the way in which it addresses the importance of creating something new and valuable in a world where most companies are simply copying what others have already done. Thiel encourages readers to think big and strive for “zero to one” instead of “one to n” innovations. This makes it a valuable resource for anyone looking to create something new and innovative in any area of their life. Overall, “Zero to One” is an excellent book that provides a wealth of practical advice and insights on how to create and build a successful startup. It is well-written, engaging, and easy to understand, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a business owner or just someone who is interested in innovation, this book is an invaluable resource that will help you think big and strive for “zero to one” innovations.
  • “Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know” by Adam Grant is a thought-provoking and insightful book that delves into the power of curiosity and the importance of questioning our assumptions. In this book, Adam Grant, a renowned organizational psychologist and author, draws on his extensive research and experience to explore the ways in which we can all learn to think more critically and creatively. Grant provides practical strategies and tools for fostering curiosity and critical thinking. He provides a number of exercises and techniques that readers can use to challenge their assumptions and question their own beliefs. He also provides examples of individuals and organizations that have successfully applied these strategies to achieve success. The book is well-written, engaging, and easy to understand. Grant’s writing style is clear, concise and engaging making it accessible to a wide range of readers. He also provides a wealth of examples and case studies that illustrate his points and make the book more relatable. Another strength of the book is the way in which it addresses the importance of questioning our assumptions and beliefs in a variety of different contexts, from work and personal relationships to politics and society. This makes it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their critical thinking skills in any area of their life.
  • “Start With Why: The Inspiring Million-Copy Bestseller That Will Help You Find Your Purpose” by Simon Sinek is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the importance of finding and communicating your purpose. The book is based on the idea that people and organizations that are successful start with a clear sense of why they do what they do. The book provides a step-by-step guide on how to discover your own personal “why” and how to use it to drive your behaviour and decisions. One of the strengths of the book is the way it helps readers to think from first principles. The book encourages readers to question assumptions and to look beyond surface-level issues to understand the underlying reasons why things happen. This way of thinking aligns with the first principles thinking, which encourages breaking down a problem into its fundamental principles and building up a solution from there. It provides practical advice and real-world examples of how businesses and organizations have used their “why” to drive success. The book offers many examples of how companies like Apple, Martin Luther King Jr, and the Wright Brothers were able to inspire others by communicating their “why” in a clear and compelling way. These examples show how starting with “why” can be the key to unlocking success. The book is well-written, engaging, and easy to understand. Sinek’s writing style is clear, concise, and engaging, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. He also provides a wealth of examples and case studies that illustrate his points and make the book more relatable. Overall, “Start With Why” is an excellent book that provides a wealth of practical advice and insights on how to discover and communicate your personal “why.” It is well-written, engaging, and easy to understand, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a business owner, or just someone looking to find your purpose in life, this book is an invaluable resource that will help you think from first principles and find success.
  • “The Possibility Principle: How Quantum Physics Can Improve the Way You Think, Live, and Love” by Mel Schwartz is a fascinating and thought-provoking book that explores the intersection of quantum physics and human behaviour. The author, Mel Schwartz, is a psychotherapist and therapist who has long been interested in the ways in which quantum physics can be used to improve the way we think, live, and love. It’s a slightly more left-field choice than other books on this list, however, the process of looking into the fundamental details of certain topics can help to alter your own viewpoint. Schwartz provides a clear and accessible introduction to the principles of quantum physics and how they relate to human behaviour. He explains how quantum physics can be used to understand the nature of reality and how we experience the world around us. He also provides a number of practical exercises and techniques that readers can use to apply the principles of quantum physics to their own lives. One of the strengths of the book is the way in which Schwartz ties together the complex principles of quantum physics with real-world examples of how they can be applied to improve our lives. He provides a number of case studies and examples of people who have used quantum physics to improve their relationships, their careers, and their overall well-being. Overall, “The Possibility Principle: How Quantum Physics Can Improve the Way You Think, Live, and Love” is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the intersection of quantum physics and human behaviour. The author provides a clear and accessible introduction to the principles of quantum physics and how they relate to human behaviour and provides a number of practical exercises and techniques that readers can use to apply the principles of quantum physics to their own lives.