How do you uncover a process behind “that’s just how I do it”?

Narrow the demonstration

To understand travel planning, ask how someone decides to retain one destination using invented material. You want the decision process, not their complete itinerary. A spoken example or blank sketch can replace a screen demonstration.

Label the observation accurately

Being watched may change the process. Record whether this was a demonstration, recollection or ordinary activity. Ask about one exception, such as a step omitted under time pressure, to understand the conditions.

A worksheet you can use

Action: __. Safe example: __. Starting point: __. Key judgment: __. Exception: __. Unobserved part: __.

What if they move too quickly?

Let a segment finish, then ask about one transition instead of interrupting every action.

Evidence and scope

A demonstration does not establish a lasting habit or justify access to private systems.

IDEO.org offers interview guidance. WKND scenarios are editorial, not endorsed. IDEO.org Design Kit — Interview

Sources and further reading

IDEO.org Design Kit — Interview

• How to ask better questions without making a conversation feel like an interview
• Nothing dramatic to talk about? Find a story in an ordinary day
• Why ask about a recent experience instead of a future promise?
• How do you ask for feedback without hiding the answer in the question?