---
type: Skill
title: Assumption Grilling
description: Use when evaluating plans, architectures, decisions, claims, or proposals that may depend on hidden assumptions.
tags: [skill, assumptions, evidence, review, falsification, okf]
timestamp: 2026-06-26T00:00:00-03:00
okf_version: "0.1"
source_status: distilled
source_name: private dogfood skill pattern
risk_level: low
requires_review: false
---

# Assumption Grilling

## Trigger

Use when evaluating plans, architectures, decisions, claims, or proposals that may depend on hidden assumptions.

## Purpose

Stress-test assumptions without replacing evidence with contrarianism.

## Inputs

- Plan, architecture, decision, claim, or proposal.
- Available supporting evidence.
- Known constraints and open questions.

## Procedure

1. Identify assumptions.
2. Identify supporting evidence.
3. Identify missing evidence.
4. Identify alternatives.
5. Identify failure modes.
6. Ask what evidence would falsify the current conclusion.
7. Re-evaluate.

## Verification

- The proposal becomes stronger, weaker, or more precise.
- Hidden assumptions become visible.
- Missing evidence is named.
- Falsification criteria are clearer.

## Failure Modes

- Arguing for its own sake.
- Being contrarian by default.
- Treating skepticism as evidence.
- Confusing challenge with dismissal.