It is widely accepted that individuals fall somewhere along the Introversion/Extraversion spectrum, which reflects personal preferences for engaging with and processing information. Introverts typically process information more effectively in solitude, while extraverts tend to thrive in social or stimulating environments. However, it is less commonly recognised that information processing extends beyond this single dimension. Drawing from personality theory, additional spectrums can be identified that reveal deeper cognitive preferences. When combined, these dimensions give rise to eight distinct styles of processing information - four that shape how individuals interpret and understand their reality, and four that guide how they evaluate and make decisions within it. These are outlined below:
Reality
Decision
The internal and external aspects of these processes refer to how the brain projects them - either outwardly, in response to one’s environment, or inwardly, based on memory, reflection, or imagination.
When it comes to how individuals experience reality, Experience represents a preference for engaging with the concrete world through the five senses and real-time information. In contrast, Synthesis reflects a preference for creating a personal, internal reality shaped by abstract ideas, patterns, and imagination.
In decision-making, Reasoning indicates a tendency to rely on logic, consistency, and objective analysis, while Emotions reflects a preference for decisions based on personal values, emotional insight, and anticipated emotional impact.
These styles can be integrated to form a person's Core Energy - a dominant combination of their preferred way of experiencing reality and making decisions - and a Core Aversion, which reflects their least-preferred approach to both. For example, someone who has a preference for Internal Experience and External Reasoning would have a Core Energy of "Structured Duty", reflecting their preference for activities such as organising spaces, checklists and historical research.
Processing information in a way that aligns with your natural preferences (Core Energy) tends to be energising. In contrast, consistently engaging in information processing that runs counter to your innate style (Core Aversion) can be mentally and emotionally draining. This is why it's important to intentionally spend time engaging with information in ways that reflect your personal cognitive strengths and preferences
Tango Alpha is a model designed to analyse the information processing preferences of individuals and prescribe an informal methodlogy to achieve balanced cognitive loading.