Pros and Cons List Template

The pros and cons list is an uncomplicated yet potent tool for decision-making that helps to comprehend both sides of a debate. The list comprises arguments in favor of a specific action or choice, referred to as "pros," and arguments against it, called "cons."

Compiling a list that delineates all aspects of the argument facilitates visualizing the potential consequences of your decision. Objectively creating your pros and cons list can assist in weighing each pro and con against the others. This method allows you to present your decision confidently by making a robust argument for why it's the right one.

With this Pros and Cons List Template, brainstorming, organizing thoughts, and quickly identifying positive and negative aspects of a decision becomes effortless.

Why use a pros and cons list?

Pros and cons lists are an uncomplicated technique that can assist in evaluating both sides of a specific decision or action. They are beneficial for collecting diverse arguments and viewpoints. This method is advantageous in identifying areas where further research may be necessary, as well as exposing gaps in knowledge.

How to fill in pros and cons list template

Begin by scheduling a brainstorming session with your team to discuss a decision or choice. Allocate a specific amount of time for the session and use a timer to ensure efficiency. During the session, request that everyone adds sticky notes to the board and groups them into either "pros" or "cons" according to the template.

Allow all ideas to flow naturally during brainstorming. Once all ideas have been generated, cluster them so that the most significant ones appear at the top of each list. Color code these clusters in order of importance so that you can analyze which factors are more crucial than others.

FigJam is an ideal tool for conducting pros and cons brainstorming sessions with remote or hybrid teams. Utilize features such as chat and @mentions to share concepts and gather feedback from team members.

How to use a pros and cons list

You can use this template to make far better decisions and evaluate any possible scenarios. You need to know that you should analyze this list qualitatively and the number of pros and cons shouldn’t influence your decision. There are no right or wrong answers.

Use the pros and cons list to clarify on any particular matters. It is a powerful teamwork tool. Add comments and stickies to flag your thoughts or direction.

Pros and cons list examples

Consider this simple example of a pros and cons list in action. Let's assume you are faced with the decision of whether or not to move into a new apartment.

Pros:

1. A new apartment may offer more space or better amenities than your current one.
2. You may be able to live in a better location with more access to public transportation, entertainment options, or shopping centers.
3. A new apartment may provide more security features.
4. You may have the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends in your building.

Cons:

1. Moving can be expensive, especially if you hire professional movers or need to purchase new furniture for your new place.
2. You'll need to update your address with various entities and transfer utilities to your new apartment.
3. The process of finding a suitable apartment can be time-consuming and stressful.

What are pros and cons lists used for?

Crafting a list of advantages and disadvantages is a straightforward approach to minimize ambiguity and encourage openness. This method involves outlining the benefits and drawbacks of different options, which helps establish an impartial decision-making process devoid of any partiality or sentimentality. Evaluating your arguments against one another can furnish additional evidence that either supports or opposes a particular choice.