Facts before assumptions

The method

1. Make three columns

Put stated information in “given”, unanswered questions in “check”, and explanations you have invented in “assumed”. A plausible story can still be unsupported. Preserve the difference between something a person reports and something independently observed.

2. Ask a question that changes the next step

A useful clarification resolves an uncertainty relevant to the task. “What makes attending difficult?” can identify a barrier. “Why are you unmotivated?” hides a conclusion in the question and may prevent you from hearing useful information.

3. Update without overcorrecting

When new information arrives, revise the assumption it contradicts. Do not replace one unsupported story with another. State what you now know and what still needs clarification before explaining your next step.

WORKED EXAMPLE

A missed appointment

A fictional client missed two appointments and says they no longer have access to their usual transport. “Two missed appointments” is a given fact; loss of transport is a reported barrier. “They do not care about recovery” is an unsupported assumption. A useful question is whether another appointment time or format would address the stated barrier, within the service’s available options. The case does not establish what alternatives are available.

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Your workshop

Your answers stay in this open page unless you choose to save on this device or download. Use fictional or de-identified learning examples; leave out patient and other people’s private information.

Check the reasoning

Choose an answer to see an explanation. These are learning checks, not an official exam or score prediction.

1. Which statement stays closest to the supplied information?The client is unwilling to attend.The client reports losing access to transport.The client needs a different treatment.

2. You learn that transport is available on Fridays. What changes?All uncertainty disappears.The earlier attendance barrier was false.Friday availability may inform a scheduling discussion; other constraints still need checking.

Build your worksheet

Given factsList only supplied observations and reports.Unanswered questionWrite one neutral clarification that could change your next action.Assumption to removeName a conclusion the case does not support.

Try a changed situation

A student misses a group session. You first suspect disinterest, then learn the room changed without notice. What would you revise, and what would you still ask?

Your response

Take away: Underline the evidence for each important statement before defending your conclusion.

I have reviewed the checks and reflected on my response.

Answer both learning checks to enable your review record.

Marking reviewed records your own activity. It does not establish mastery or readiness.