How do you frame a creative session so it does not drift?
Specify the people, situation and desired change, then list genuine constraints. Keep multiple solutions possible rather than embedding your preferred format in the question.
Move from solution back to problem
Planning a lecture already selects a format. Helping newcomers leave with one practical action allows demonstrations, exercises or discussion. Confirm real time and venue limits rather than treating preferences as immovable.
Test the boundary with an off-topic idea
Use an appealing but irrelevant suggestion to check whether the question explains its exclusion. If everything fits, narrow the scope. Save tangents without following each immediately.
A worksheet you can use
People: __. Situation: __. Desired change: __. Fixed limits: __. Open formats: __. Exclusions: __.
Do many constraints eliminate creativity?
Check which constraints are real. Some may only be habits worth questioning.
Evidence and scope
A clear prompt cannot guarantee creativity or replace understanding participants' needs.
IDEO.org discusses group ideation. WKND arrangements are editorial, not endorsed. IDEO.org Design Kit — Brainstorm
Sources and further reading
This collection in Chinese and English · Life possibilities library