Mental Models — A Starter Constellation

Mental models are small, reusable explanations about how something works. They are more durable than tool-specific tips because they apply across contexts.

Why keep a digital garden?

• Atomic notes compound over time
• You can link related ideas and grow themes
• Writing is thinking; gardening is revisiting your thinking

Starter set

1. Constraints first — identify invariants
2. Feedback loops — what reinforces or balances?
3. Abstractions leak — inspect the layer below
4. Interfaces shape behavior — name inputs/outputs

Keep these handy as you read code and docs.