The TST Framework is a critical thinking framework with three key components: Thought Tools, Mind Traps, and Truth Hammers. Together, these elements provide a structured approach to understanding and evaluating information. The Five Thought Tools help you gather, frame, and communicate accurate information, the Four Mind Traps help you avoid potholes, and the Three Truth Hammers help you short circuit the gathering of accurate information.
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TST Framework
A critical thinking toolkit.
Sun 15 Feb 2026
Published 2 weeks ago.
Updated 4 days ago.
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TST Framework
By Michael Alan Prestwood
1 of 4
Philosophy
Article
TST Framework
Critical Thinking
The TST Framework is a critical thinking framework with three key components: Thought Tools, Mind Traps, and Truth Hammers. Together, these elements provide a structured approach to understanding and evaluating information. The Five Thought Tools help you gather, frame, and communicate accurate information, the Four Mind Traps help you avoid potholes, and the Three Truth Hammers help you short circuit the gathering of accurate information.
2 of 4
Critical Thinking
Article
The Five Thought Tools: Viewpoint, Ideas, Reasoning, Social Constructs, and Reflection
Acquiring Knowledge
Thought tools shape how we see reality, evaluate claims, and communicate with others. A basic, top-down understanding of all five tools is enough for everyday life, better decisions, and clearer conversations. Great thinking isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about knowing how to think.
3 of 4
Critical Thinking
Article
The Four Mind Traps: Logical Fallacies, Cognitive Biases, Heuristics, and Stereotypes
Cognitive Obstacles
You don’t have to defeat every mind trap to think better: you just have to see them. Awareness alone goes a long way. The moment you recognize a fallacy, bias, heuristic, or stereotype at work, its power weakens.
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Philosophy
Article
The Three Truth Hammers: Science, Journalism, and Law
- MSM: The Mainstream Media!
- It's not hard to learn how to filter it.
Epistemology and Philosophy of Mind
Based on current evidence, the truth hammers represent the best estimate of truth by authorities. The Three Truth Hammers are the top of the TST Framework. When you understand how to watch science, the law, and journalism, they are shortcuts to gathering accurate information, saving you much time and energy.