PMI (Plus-Minus-Interesting)
Class Size
Individual
Time
10-15 min
Technology
None
Domain
Cognitive
Difficulty
Beginner
Delivery
Face-to-Face, Online, Hybrid
Overview
PMI is a simple thinking tool where students evaluate an idea by listing its Plus points (advantages), Minus points (disadvantages), and Interesting points (implications or things worth exploring further). It was designed by Edward de Bono as a way to deliberately widen thinking beyond a first reaction.
Educational Purpose
When students hear an idea, they immediately decide if they agree or disagree. PMI slows that down by requiring them to find positives even in ideas they dislike and negatives even in ideas they like. The Interesting column pushes beyond binary thinking into curiosity.
Educational Psychology Behind It
De Bono's research shows that after PMI, 70% of students changed their initial opinion, compared to almost none in unstructured discussion. The act of listing before judging widens attention.
Why It Works
De Bono's research shows that after PMI, 70% of students changed their initial opinion, compared to almost none in unstructured discussion. The act of listing before judging widens attention.
When to Use It
Use PMI for evaluating proposals, solutions, historical decisions, scientific theories, or even story plot decisions in English. Great as a pre-discussion activity to broaden thinking.
When NOT to Use It
Avoid for questions with a clear correct answer. Avoid with very young students (below Grade 4) who struggle with the Interesting category.
Best Grade Levels
Grades Grade 4 to Grade 10
Best Subjects
All subjects
Step-by-Step Classroom Guide
- 1Present the idea, proposal, or question to evaluate.
- 2Draw a three-column table: Plus, Minus, Interesting.
- 3Give 3-5 minutes for individual brainstorming in all three columns.
- 4Share and compile responses on the board.
- 5Discuss: Did anyone's initial opinion change after doing the PMI?
- 6What was the most surprising Interesting point?
Classroom Scenario
Ms. Reyes teaches Grade 6 ESP. She presents the idea: 'The government should ban all plastic bags.' Students initially cheer. After PMI, they list Plus: less pollution, cleaner oceans, forces reusable alternatives. Minus: higher costs for small businesses, job losses in plastic manufacturing, inconvenience for shoppers. Interesting: What materials would replace plastic? Would biodegradable bags actually decompose in landfills? Would a ban work without enforcement? Several students say the Minus column made them think more carefully, even though they still support the idea.
Sample Dialogue
Advantages
- Simple enough for Grade 4 and up
- Forces balanced thinking in under 15 minutes
- The Interesting column develops curiosity, not just judgment
- Works in any subject
- Easy to do individually, in pairs, or as a class
Limitations
- The Interesting column is hard for younger students to understand
- Can become mechanical if used too often
- Students may pad Plus or Minus with weak points
- Does not resolve the question, only maps the thinking
Common Mistakes
- Letting students skip the Interesting column, which is the most valuable part
- Using PMI for factual questions instead of evaluative ones
- Not debriefing whether opinions changed
Variations & Adaptations
Adjust the complexity of the topic, number of perspectives required, and depth of analysis based on students' experience with critical thinking.
Technology Integration
This strategy requires no technology. If desired, enhance with digital tools such as Google Docs for collaborative writing or Padlet for sharing responses.
Assessment Ideas
Assess through observation of participation, quality of critical thinking, and formative checks such as exit tickets or quick writes.
Reflection Questions
🤔 What did you learn from this activity?
🤔 What was the most challenging part?
🤔 How could you use this strategy in a different subject?
🤔 What would you do differently next time?
References & Further Reading
- de Bono, E. (1992). Teaching Thinking. Penguin Books.
- de Bono, E. (1986). CoRT Thinking Program. Pergamon Press