Decide What Could Change Your Mind Before You Search

Before investigating a belief, write down what evidence would make you revise it. Then look for that evidence—not only examples that fit what you already think.

For instance, if you believe a certain study method helps you understand a topic, name the result that would count against it before trying the method. A clear test might reveal that your first idea was too broad, or that the evidence cannot settle the question yet. Either is useful: the goal is not to win an argument with yourself, but to make your reasoning easier to examine.

Keep the test small, and separate what matters to you from what you’re predicting will happen. That way, a changed prediction doesn’t have to mean abandoning the value behind it.