A hypothesis tree takes a problem statement and comprehensively disaggregates potential solutions. A hypothesis tree is a great tool to use any time you are trying to better understand a problem and/or opportunities.

Most projects at strategy consulting firms start with the team spending a few hours brainstorming and aligning on the hypothesis tree for the defined problem statement. The hypothesis tree helps a team scope out the scale of the problem and potential solutions, build context, prioritize some of the analysis and facts needed, and communicate the problem solving structure and path.

To get you going on creating hypothesis trees, download the free and editable Hypothesis Tree PowerPoint Worksheet.

Take a large and important problem your team or company is trying to solve.

Create a problem statement. You can utilize the problem statement module to do this.

Once you have a clear problem statement, disaggregate potential solutions into 2-5 major hypotheses. Make sure they are MECE and at the same level of specificity. Next, tree out sub-hypotheses or ideas that would drive the major hypotheses. Next, list out the analyses or fact base you need to prove or disprove the hypotheses or determine the magnitude of the ideas.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE ON HYPOTHESIS TREES

MCKINSEY PROBLEM SOLVING COURSE - LEARN MORE & ENROLL

Learn more about the best self-paced course on McKinsey Problem Solving

DOWNLOAD STRATEGY PRESENTATION TEMPLATES

THE $150 VALUE PACK - 600 SLIDES
168-PAGE COMPENDIUM OF STRATEGY FRAMEWORKS & TEMPLATES
186-PAGE HR & ORG STRATEGY PRESENTATION
100-PAGE SALES PLAN PRESENTATION
121-PAGE STRATEGIC PLAN & COMPANY OVERVIEW PRESENTATION
114-PAGE MARKET & COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS PRESENTATION
18-PAGE BUSINESS MODEL TEMPLATE

JOE NEWSUM COACHING

Learn more about Joe Newsum, the author of all this free content and a McKinsey Alum. I provide a suite of coaching and training services to realize the potential in you, your team, and your business. Learn more about me and my coaching philosophy.