Logic Tree
Break down a problem or goal into a branching tree for MECE thinking. Saved in your browser; export to JSON. No upload.
No upload, no data sent — everything runs in your browser.
About this tool
A logic tree is a thinking tool that breaks one problem or theme down by branching from top to bottom, so you can organize causes or solutions without gaps. It helps with root-cause work that digs into why something happens, and with means expansion that splits out how to achieve a goal, cutting complex matters into manageable pieces. It suits organizing discussion points and structuring issues.
To use it, put a theme (a problem or goal) at the top and add its components as branches below. Each branch can be broken down further, and following the levels lets you see both the big picture and the details. Your changes are saved automatically to your browser localStorage and are never sent to a server.
A key idea to keep in mind is MECE, meaning mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive. When branches at the same level do not overlap yet cover the whole, the analysis has fewer blind spots. In practice it is easier to not chase perfect MECE, but to divide broadly first and refine the precision from there.
Where an idea tree is for divergence, spreading thoughts freely, a logic tree is for convergence and analysis, breaking things down along a clear line of reasoning. It works well to expand ideas with an idea tree, then use a logic tree for cause analysis and organizing countermeasures. You can export the tree as JSON to save and re-edit it.
How to use
- Enter your theme or problem in the top node.
- Use Add child to branch into sub-elements and decompose hierarchically.
- Edit or delete any node; it saves automatically. Use Export/Import JSON to save or share.
FAQ
Is what I enter sent anywhere?
No. Editing happens entirely in your browser, and the content is stored in your device localStorage. Nothing is uploaded or sent to a server.
When do I use a logic tree versus an idea tree?
An idea tree is for divergence, spreading thoughts without worrying about being right; a logic tree is for analysis, breaking elements down along a line of reasoning. It works to expand ideas first, then organize causes and countermeasures logically.
What is MECE?
It is a guideline for breaking things down, standing for mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive. It describes a state where branches at the same level do not overlap and together cover the whole, which leads to analysis with fewer gaps.
What kinds of trees can I build?
You can freely build cause-analysis trees that dig into why, or means-expansion trees that split out how, depending on your purpose. Whether the top theme is a problem or a goal decides the type.
Can I save the tree I made?
Yes, you can export it as JSON. The exported file can be loaded again to keep editing and works for moving to another device.
Does the content remain after I close the page?
Yes. It is saved automatically, so reopening the same browser lets you continue. Note that it is not retained after clearing browser data or in a private window.