How Do We Think in Complete Sentences?

Many of us might not realize the complexity of thought processing that goes on in our minds. We often speak in short, incomplete sentences, especially when our thoughts are more fragmented due to the fast-paced nature of mental processing. While writing in complete sentences can be challenging, many people, like myself, tend to speak and write in similar short, succinct phrases.

The Diversity of Thinking

Individuals differ widely in the way they process and articulate their thoughts. Some people think in vivid images or visual scenes instead of words. Others might process their thoughts as abstract concepts or emotions without needing to express them in sentences. Many use key words or fragmented thoughts to grasp larger ideas, while some might experience their thoughts as sounds or melodies. The way we think is influenced by our cognitive style, personal experiences, and even the context in which we are thinking.

Framing Thoughts in Sentences

When it comes to framing our thoughts in complete sentences, it is a process that requires conscious effort. Most of the time, our minds work hard to form rough ideas before we can articulate them fully. This is similar to how we might write a letter: first, we jot down our thoughts, and then we revise them to shape them better. However, processing our thoughts mentally is much faster than expressing them.

The Nature of Unbidden and Bidden Thoughts

I sometimes experience two types of thoughts: unbidden and bidden. An unbidden thought is one that suddenly pops into my head without any prior context or cause. These are often spontaneous and may not be accompanied by any words. I simply understand them without the need for linguistic interpretation. On the other hand, bidden thoughts are actively created by me, emerging from an apparent void. Even when I create thought-patterns or ideas, I often use sentence fragments to jumpstart the process. This helps me transform these thoughts into more coherent and structured ideas.

Writing as a Form of Self-Discourse

Interestingly, when I write, my process often involves talking to myself in complete sentences. I form the words I want to say, and within a nanosecond, they appear on the screen. This phenomenon supports the idea that writing is a form of self-discourse, allowing me to verbalize complex ideas more clearly. It should be noted that the act of writing allows for rapid mental calculations and transitions, which would slow down if we were to think out the words before speaking them. Writing, in this sense, streamlines our thought processes and enhances clarity.

Those who struggle with writing in complete sentences often find that their thoughts are more fragmented and less organized. However, this does not mean that such thoughts are less valuable or meaningful. Our cognitive processes are highly individual, and what works for one person may not for another.

In conclusion, while we might not always speak in complete sentences, our minds are constantly processing thoughts in rapid-fire succession. Whether our thoughts are unbidden or bidden, framed in sentences or fragmented, the diversity of our thought patterns enriches our human experience and allows for unique personal expressions and creativity. Understanding the nuances of how our minds work is crucial to improving our communication and overall cognitive efficiency.