How can learning-by-thinking methods enhance problem-solving in business strategy formulation?

Learning‑by‑thinking methods let managers pause and mentally simulate different strategic choices, forcing them to examine assumptions and explore consequences before committing. By actively rehearsing scenarios, they uncover hidden biases, test alternative outcomes, and build a clearer mental model of the business environment. This rehearsal sharpens insight into trade‑offs, helping teams spot gaps or opportunities that would otherwise remain hidden. For example, a retailer might mentally walk through a price‑cut scenario, noticing that increased volume would strain supply chains and prompting a revised pricing strategy that balances growth and risk. In short, these methods turn abstract thinking into a disciplined rehearsal that sharpens decision quality and speeds up strategy development.