Thinking from right to left - a simple structure for any investment

Start with the conclusion - what do you want to get done? Do not start with a single solution but with an objective that will lead to a set of questions that may lead to alternatives. This is right to left thinking. 

There are several paths to achieve a goal, but the conclusion must be clearly identified. Amazon will often start with what will be in the press release for a project and what would be the frequently asked questions associated with a product or project. The end pitch comes first.  Get what you want to conclusion done first and then determine how the project will need to be managed to get that end result. You are working backwards. 

A writer must start with what he want the reader to take away first and then fill-in the chapters with the details. The story board needs clarity on what is the goal from a narrative.

For the money manager, start with what you want to deliver to the investor first. Research is about learning from data, but it should not be done in a vacuum. There needs to be clarity on what is the purpose of the research. Once you have the product, you can then work on building the models that will generate the desired conclusion. If you want a low volatility and uncorrelated fund, then start with that conclusion and all of the research has to be focused on delivering this type of product.