Explaining the world one sketch at a time

Sketchplanations makes complex ideas simple with clear, insightful sketches. Explore topics from science, creativity, psychology, and beyond explained in pictures.

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Give air a pathway to avoid glugging

Part of the reason why bottles should really have their necks to one side instead of in the centre.…

30 Oct 2013

Patnaik’s Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow’s is interesting, but not terribly helpful if you want to use it for something. This one however, I still find a very useful framework when designing (read about it in the DMI paper System Logics). Your sweet spots for the exciting innovations are the context and activity level needs. …

29 Oct 2013

Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs

The basic idea goes that you have to satisfy those at the bottom before the top: if you’re freezing cold and hungry, you’re not giving much thought to the joy mastering new skills. Not terribly robust. But interesting and somewhat clarifying. See updated sketchplanation of Maslow's hierarchy of needs.…

28 Oct 2013

Rules of thumb for remaining daylight

In temperate latitudes and around the Summer. 12 minutes per finger. 1 hour for your fist. (hat tip to Joel Wilson)…

27 Oct 2013

What is the RICE acronym for repairing injured joints: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation

Repair injured joints with RICE

A mnemonic that has helped me many times: RICE—Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation—is a simple and effective way to treat joint injuries. Whether it’s a sprain or strain, this first aid method reduces pain and swelling to promote recovery. Keep this handy memory aid in mind for when you need it most.…

26 Oct 2013

Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants

Advice to eat well, from Michael Pollan. From In Defense of Food.…

25 Oct 2013

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