Before committing.
WHY SKETCH FIRST
It is fast, and it makes discarding easy.
WHAT TO DO
Produce several rough approaches before refining any.
WHY SEVERAL
The first idea is rarely the best, and comparing is more useful than judging one alone.
WHAT TO USE
Paper, or anything quick.
WHY NOT DETAILED TOOLS
Detail invites discussion of appearance before the structure is decided.
WHAT TO EXPLORE
Different structures Different orders Different emphasis
WHAT TO IGNORE AT THIS STAGE
Colour Typography Exact spacing
WHAT TO SHOW OTHERS
Rough work, so they comment on structure.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU SHOW POLISHED WORK
People comment on polish.
WHAT TO KEEP
The rejected options, and why.
WHY
The same suggestions return later.
WHAT TO DECIDE BEFORE REFINING
Which approach, and why.