Principlev1
Construct relationship maps manually before using AI tools
Construct relationship maps manually before using AI tools to generate them, as the cognitive benefit comes from making explicit decisions about entities, connections, and types rather than consuming finished artifacts.
Why This Is a Principle
Derives from Generative Externalization (externalization is generative) and Externalization Exposes Hidden Structure (externalizing exposes gaps). The principle prescribes construction-before-consumption based on understanding that the act of mapping generates insight that reading maps does not. It's highly actionable and general across all mapping contexts including AI-assisted work.