Improv Master Method

This method comes from improvisational theater, where actors must accept whatever idea is thrown at them and build on it. Instead of rejecting or criticizing an idea, you say “Yes, and…” to explore where it could go. This approach keeps ideas alive longer, allowing them to evolve into something unexpectedly brilliant.

When to use it

• When brainstorming new ideas.

• When collaboration feels stagnant or negative.

• When you want to encourage creativity without judgment.

• When trying to develop a weak or half-formed idea into something stronger.

How it works

Start with Any Idea 

It doesn’t matter how simple, dumb, or incomplete it is.

Resist the Urge to Criticize 

Don’t shut it down, even if it seems silly or unrealistic.

Say “Yes, And…” 

Accept the idea and add something new to it.

Keep Building 

Let the idea evolve through continuous additions.

Refine Later 

Only evaluate practicality after creativity has run its course.

Example 1

The Creation of Pixar’s Toy Story

​

Problem

Pixar wanted to make a fully computer-animated movie but didn’t know what the story should be.

​

Yes, And Expansion Question

“What if toys came to life when people weren’t looking?”

​

Breakthrough

Instead of shutting down the idea as too basic, the team kept building:

• “Yes, and… what if the main character was a cowboy?”

• “Yes, and… what if he got jealous when a new toy arrived?”

• “Yes, and… what if that new toy was from outer space?”

​

Through this process, a simple idea turned into the beloved Toy Story franchise.

Example 2

How McDonald’s Accidentally Invented the Big Mac

Problem

McDonald’s was designed for simple, fast meals, but franchise owners noticed that customers wanted larger, more satisfying burgers.

Yes, And Expansion Question

“What if we added another layer to the standard burger?”

Breakthrough

Instead of rejecting the idea for being "too different," they built on it:

• “Yes, and… let’s use a third bun in the middle.”

• “Yes, and… let’s add a special sauce to make it unique.”

• “Yes, and… let’s give it a name that sounds premium.”

That process led to the Big Mac, now one of the most iconic fast-food items of all time.

Why it works

✓ Encourages free-flowing creativity by delaying judgment.

​

✓ Helps develop half-baked ideas into fully formed innovations.

​

✓ Creates a positive, open atmosphere for problem-solving.

Tips for applying

👉️ Replace “Yes, but…” with “Yes, and…” in your discussions.

​

👉️ When brainstorming, avoid immediate critiques—build first, refine later.

​

👉️ Challenge yourself to keep an idea going for five minutes before judging it.

👉️ Use improv-style exercises to practice expanding ideas in a group setting.