Brainstorming is best described as what?

• A. Brainstorming is a group problem-solving technique that involves spontaneous contribution of ideas from all members.
• B. Brainstorming is a structured method where only the leader contributes ideas.
• C. Brainstorming requires evaluating ideas before they are shared.
• D. Brainstorming is a method of solving problems by a small committee with limited input.

Answer: (A)

Brainstorming is a group problem-solving approach that invites spontaneous contributions from all members to generate a wide range of ideas. The strength lies in a non-judgmental, free-flowing environment where ideas are shared before any critique, allowing participants to build on each other’s thoughts. This is why it fits the description of collective, open input rather than a leader-dominated process or early evaluation. Descriptions that rely on only the leader contributing, require judging ideas before sharing them, or limit input to a small committee miss the essence of brainstorming, which is broad participation and rapid generation of many options.