Abstraction Laddering
What is it:
Abstraction Laddering is a mental model that helps you reframe problems by shifting between different levels of abstraction - zooming out to understand the big picture, and zooming in to identify actionable next steps. It helps ensure you’re solving the right problem, not just the most obvious one.
Originally developed by S.I. Hayakawa, a linguist and U.S. Senator, the model was first introduced in his 1939 book Language in Thought and Action. Hayakawa used it to demonstrate how language can represent reality at different levels - from the highly concrete ("cow") to the highly abstract ("livestock" or "economy").
In design thinking, innovation, and strategy, this tool is now widely used to clarify goals, rethink challenge statements, and spark creative breakthroughs.
Why it works:
Most people frame problems at a single level - too broad, and you get stuck in theory; too narrow, and you miss the context.
Abstraction Laddering lets you fluidly move between levels, helping you:
Reframe challenges from fresh angles
Clarify what really matters
Find more innovative, actionable, or strategic solutions
You avoid prematurely jumping to solutions before understanding the real job to be done.
How it works:
How it works:
Start with a problem or goal. Then:
Move up the ladder by asking “Why is this important?” or “What’s the bigger purpose here?”
This expands your scope and connects you to values, long-term goals, or broader systems.Move down the ladder by asking “How would I do that?” or “What are the steps?”
This grounds your problem in reality and leads to tangible next steps or prototypes.
Modern Examples:
Product design:
"We need a better app onboarding experience."
Why? "To reduce user drop-off."
Why? "To improve lifetime value and engagement."
How? "Test a new walkthrough flow and reduce steps to activation."
Career decisions:
"Should I take this job offer?"
Why? - "To grow professionally."
Why? - "To build skills for long-term independence."
How? - "Ask which role better aligns with my learning curve and values."
Personal life:
"I want to work out more."
Why? - "To have more energy and confidence."
How? - "Start with 10-minute walks every day at lunch."
Prompts for application:
What’s the bigger reason this matters? (Move up)
What’s one practical step I can take today? (Move down)
Am I solving a surface-level issue - or the root cause?
How could I reframe this challenge from a systems-level perspective?
Sources:
Hayakawa, S.I. – Language in Thought and Action (1939)
IDEO – Design Thinking practices and challenge reframing techniques
Norman, D. – The Design of Everyday Things – conceptual model thinking
