Back of the Napkin by Dan Roam

Last updated: Aug 9, 2023

Summary of Back of the Napkin by Dan Roam

Back of the Napkin by Dan Roam is a book that teaches readers how to effectively communicate and solve problems using simple drawings. Roam argues that visual thinking is a powerful tool that can be used by anyone, regardless of their artistic abilities.

The book is divided into four main sections, each focusing on a different aspect of visual thinking. In the first section, Roam introduces the concept of "seeing" and explains how our brains are wired to process visual information. He emphasizes the importance of using simple drawings to clarify complex ideas and encourages readers to embrace their inner artist.

In the second section, Roam introduces the "Visual Thinking Codex," a set of six basic visual thinking tools that can be used to solve any problem. These tools include the "Who/What" framework, which helps identify key players and their relationships, and the "How Much" framework, which helps quantify and compare different options. Roam provides step-by-step instructions on how to use each tool and includes numerous examples to illustrate their effectiveness.

The third section of the book focuses on applying visual thinking to business and professional settings. Roam explains how visual thinking can be used to improve presentations, brainstorming sessions, and strategic planning. He provides practical tips and techniques for using visual thinking in these contexts, such as using simple drawings to engage and captivate an audience.

In the final section, Roam addresses common objections and concerns about visual thinking. He acknowledges that some people may be skeptical or resistant to using drawings as a problem-solving tool, but he argues that visual thinking is a natural and intuitive way of processing information. Roam also provides guidance on how to overcome barriers and objections, such as the fear of drawing poorly or the belief that visual thinking is only for artists.

Overall, Back of the Napkin is a comprehensive guide to visual thinking that empowers readers to communicate and solve problems more effectively. Roam's accessible writing style and numerous examples make the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds and skill levels. By embracing visual thinking, readers can unlock their creativity and gain a new perspective on problem-solving.

1. The Power of Visual Thinking

In "Back of the Napkin," Dan Roam emphasizes the power of visual thinking as a tool for problem-solving and communication. He argues that our brains are wired to process visual information more effectively than text or numbers. By using simple drawings and diagrams, we can clarify complex ideas, identify patterns, and communicate more efficiently.

Roam introduces the concept of the "Visual Thinking Codex," a set of six visual thinking tools that can be used to solve any problem. These tools include the "Who/What" framework for understanding relationships, the "How Much" framework for understanding quantity, and the "When/Where" framework for understanding time and space. By applying these tools, we can break down complex problems into manageable visual chunks and gain new insights.

2. The Importance of Asking the Right Questions

Roam emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions in problem-solving. He argues that the quality of our questions determines the quality of our answers. By asking the right questions, we can uncover hidden assumptions, challenge existing beliefs, and discover new possibilities.

Roam introduces the "SQVID" framework, which stands for "Simple, Quality, Vision, Individual, and Change." This framework provides a set of questions that can be used to analyze any problem. For example, asking "What is the Simplest solution?" helps us identify the most straightforward approach, while asking "What is the Visionary solution?" encourages us to think outside the box. By using the SQVID framework, we can ensure that we are asking the right questions and exploring all possible angles.

3. The Power of Visual Metaphors

Roam highlights the power of visual metaphors in conveying complex ideas. He argues that by using simple and familiar images, we can tap into the audience's existing knowledge and make our ideas more relatable and memorable.

Roam introduces the concept of the "Vivid Visual Metaphor," which involves using a single image to represent a complex idea. For example, using a light bulb to represent a new idea or a puzzle piece to represent a missing piece of information. By using visual metaphors, we can simplify complex concepts, make them more engaging, and enhance the audience's understanding and retention.

4. The Four Steps of Visual Problem Solving

Roam outlines a four-step process for visual problem-solving. The first step is to "Look" by observing and gathering information about the problem. The second step is to "See" by analyzing and organizing the information to identify patterns and insights. The third step is to "Imagine" by generating and exploring possible solutions. The final step is to "Show" by communicating the solution visually.

Roam emphasizes that each step is crucial and should not be skipped. By following this process, we can approach problem-solving in a structured and systematic way, ensuring that we consider all relevant information and generate creative solutions.

5. The Power of Storytelling

Roam highlights the power of storytelling in conveying complex ideas and engaging the audience. He argues that stories have a unique ability to capture attention, evoke emotions, and make information more memorable.

Roam introduces the concept of the "Six-Word Story," which involves summarizing a complex idea or problem in just six words. By distilling the essence of the problem into a concise and compelling story, we can capture the audience's attention and make them more receptive to our ideas.

6. The Importance of Clarity and Simplicity

Roam emphasizes the importance of clarity and simplicity in visual communication. He argues that complex ideas can be made more accessible and understandable by simplifying them and removing unnecessary details.

Roam introduces the concept of the "SQ3R" framework, which stands for "Simplify, Qualify, Quantify, and Reveal." This framework provides a set of guidelines for creating clear and effective visual communication. For example, simplifying complex ideas into simple shapes and using color to highlight important information. By applying the SQ3R framework, we can ensure that our visual communication is clear, concise, and impactful.

7. The Power of Visual Templates

Roam highlights the power of visual templates in facilitating problem-solving and decision-making. He argues that by using pre-designed templates, we can save time, structure our thinking, and ensure consistency in our visual communication.

Roam introduces a variety of visual templates, such as the "Six-By-Six" grid for organizing information, the "SQVID" framework for asking the right questions, and the "Visual Codex" for solving complex problems. By using these templates, we can streamline our problem-solving process, ensure that we consider all relevant factors, and communicate our ideas more effectively.

8. The Importance of Practice

Roam emphasizes the importance of practice in developing visual thinking skills. He argues that visual thinking is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice.

Roam provides various exercises and activities throughout the book to help readers develop their visual thinking skills. These exercises include drawing simple diagrams, creating visual metaphors, and using visual templates. By practicing these techniques regularly, we can enhance our ability to think visually, solve problems more effectively, and communicate our ideas more persuasively.