generalize

Steps

1. Which particulars can go without changing the case's shape?

Drop one particular at a time: names, numbers, domain, scale. After each drop, check that the case keeps the same kinds of parts, relations, and goal. Keep any particular whose drop changes them.

2. What class is left?

Name the class the stripped case belongs to, and list the particulars dropped to reach it.

3. What holds for every member?

List what is known for the class: solutions, failure modes, laws, limits.

4. What of it applies to this case?

Check each item against the dropped particulars. Apply to the case the items no dropped particular voids. For each item set aside, name the particular that voids it.

5. Does a wider class still predict anything here?