Here is an algorithm that usually works for me: 1. An idea pops into your mind and you truly believe it. 2. You use the full force of your intellect to prove it

Here is an algorithm that usually works for me: 1. An idea pops into your mind and you truly believe it. 2. You use the full force of your intellect to prove it wrong. You seek out evidence to prove the idea wrong. You throw everything you have at the idea. You ask people with different opinions to prove it wrong and listen carefully to the arguments/evidence given. 3. You keep the ideas that so far have withstood the attack. But whenever new counter evidence appears, you repeat step 2 again.