ase-assume-solution-exists

name	ase - Assume Solution Exists
description	Force the assumption that a solution exists for the problem at hand, then trace what follows. What does the solution space look like? What constraints must it satisfy? What have we been missing?
output	{"format":"prose"}

Assume Solution Exists

Input: $ARGUMENTS

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Core Move

Temporarily adopt the assumption: a solution to this problem definitely exists. Don't question whether — ask what, where, and what shape.

This is useful when you're stuck in "is this even solvable?" loops. By forcing existence, you shift from possibility-checking to solution-hunting.

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Procedure

Step 1: State the Problem

Precisely state the problem or challenge from the input.

Step 2: Force the Assumption

State explicitly: "A solution exists. It is real and findable."

Step 3: Trace Implications

If a solution exists:

1. What properties must it have? — List constraints the solution must satisfy.
2. Where would it live? — What domain, field, discipline, or approach space?
3. What would it look like? — Sketch the shape, even if vague.
4. What adjacent solutions exist? — What partial, approximate, or analogous solutions already exist?
5. Why haven't we found it yet? — What's blocking discovery? Wrong search space? Wrong framing? Missing tools?
6. Who would have found it? — What kind of person, team, or field would have encountered this solution?

Step 4: Test the Assumption

Now critically examine: is the assumption that a solution exists actually warranted?

• What evidence supports existence?
• What evidence suggests non-existence?
• Is this an empirical question or a logical one?
• Could the problem be ill-posed (no solution because the question is wrong)?

Step 5: Synthesize

PROBLEM: [stated]
ASSUMING SOLUTION EXISTS:
  Must satisfy: [constraints]
  Likely lives in: [domain/space]
  Looks like: [shape]
  Blocked by: [what's preventing discovery]
EXISTENCE CONFIDENCE: [high/medium/low with reasoning]
NEXT MOVE: [specific action to find or verify]

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When to Use

• Stuck in feasibility paralysis
• Need to shift from "can we?" to "how do we?"
• Want to map the solution space before judging solvability

Integration

• Pair with /asdne for the opposite stance
• Follow with /se to explore the solution space identified
• Use /araw for full bilateral analysis