Family Sort

A long list feels impossible to compare because many entries are versions of the same idea. Group options by how they work or how they commit you before comparing details.

Group the mechanisms. Compare families. Inspect the finalists.

Cluster candidates by their underlying mechanism or commitment form. Use the clone test: options sharing first actions, evidence needs, and failure reasons may belong together. Compare families first, then distinguish meaningful variations within promising families. Keep unusual candidates visible rather than forcing every item into a tidy group.

Try this when…

We have twenty choices and no clearer decision.

These options sound different but require the same next step.

I keep comparing minor features before choosing an approach.

Our shortlist may contain only one real mechanism.

What you can use it for

Tools and services

Separate different ways of meeting a need before comparing providers.

Project approaches

Distinguish doing, transferring, piloting, waiting, and ending as commitment forms.

Learning plans

Group methods by the kind of practice or feedback they supply.