The PREP Framework: How To Communicate Confidently In Any Situation!

Summary

The speaker discusses how mental frameworks can help streamline thought processes in complex situations. They explain that confusion or difficulty in answering questions often stems from not having structured frameworks. Using the 'PREP' framework—Point, Reason, Example, and Point restatement—can make communication clearer and more efficient. The speaker demonstrates this with an example about automating workflows and emphasizes that anyone can improve their communication by learning and applying these frameworks, thus enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in conversations.

Takeaways

• 🧠 It's common to feel overwhelmed when answering questions due to a lack of mental frameworks, not because you're a slow thinker.
• 🍍 The brain can overthink simple questions, like feelings about pineapples, leading to confusion about what aspect to discuss.
• 📊 People who answer questions quickly often use mental models or frameworks to organize their thoughts effectively.
• 📋 A useful framework for communication is PREP: Point, Reason, Example, and Point (reiterate).
• ⚙️ For example, in a workplace setting, you can use PREP to advocate for more automation by stating the point, giving reasons, providing an example, and restating the point.
• ✉️ An example of using automation is reducing back-and-forth emails by using a tool like Calendly to schedule meetings.
• ⏱️ Using a framework like PREP allows you to deliver clear and concise messages quickly.
• 💬 In corporate settings, many people tend to 'waffle' without frameworks, leading to vague or unproductive conversations.
• 🔧 The issue isn't slow thinking but rather not having the right mental tools or frameworks to structure thoughts.
• 📚 Learning and practicing communication frameworks gives you the tools needed to communicate more effectively and efficiently.

Q & A

What is the main reason people struggle to give clear answers in conversations?

People often struggle to give clear answers because they lack mental frameworks to organize their thoughts, leading to confusion and incoherent responses.

How does the human brain react when asked a vague question like 'How do you feel about pineapples?'

The brain processes multiple aspects at once, such as taste, personal preference, popularity, or availability, making it difficult to focus on a single response.

What do quick responders use to organize their thoughts effectively?

Quick responders often use mental models or frameworks that help them distill their thoughts into clear and meaningful communication.

What does the acronym 'PREP' stand for in communication frameworks?

'PREP' stands for Point, Reason, Example, and Point again. This structure helps organize communication into a clear, concise, and effective message.

Can you explain how the PREP framework works with an example?

Yes. First, state your point, like 'We should use more automation technology at work.' Then, give a reason, such as 'I waste time setting up meetings.' Provide an example, like 'I use Calendly, which saves time.' Finally, restate your point to reinforce it.

Why do people often 'waffle' in corporate meetings?

People waffle in meetings because they lack a structured framework for their thoughts, leading to unclear, repetitive, and often meaningless statements.

What is the result of using frameworks like PREP in conversations?

Using frameworks like PREP results in clear, concise communication that conveys a meaningful message quickly, avoiding unnecessary complexity.

What’s the significance of having multiple frameworks available for communication?

Having multiple frameworks allows you to quickly organize your thoughts depending on the situation, making your communication more effective and versatile.

How does the speaker suggest we address the feeling of being a 'slow thinker'?

The speaker suggests that feeling like a 'slow thinker' is not due to cognitive slowness but rather a lack of frameworks. Learning and applying the right tools can improve thinking and communication speed.

What is the analogy the speaker uses to explain why people struggle to communicate effectively?

The speaker compares the situation to trying to drill a hole with a screwdriver, emphasizing that the issue is not with the individual but with the lack of proper tools or frameworks.