According to Oech, the judge _____

• A. Explores the situation
• B. Defines the problem and generates solutions
• C. Selects a solution
• D. Puts ideas into action

Answer: (C)

In von Oech’s framework, the mind has distinct roles: Explorer, Artist, Judge, and Warrior. The judge’s job is the evaluative step—weighing options, assessing them against criteria and constraints, and ultimately deciding which idea to pursue. That’s why selecting a solution best fits the judge: after ideas are explored and developed, the judge decides which one to move forward with. The other roles are about generation or action—the Explorer digs into the situation to gather information; the Artist reframes problems and creates options; the Warrior implements the chosen solution. So choosing the best solution to move ahead with reflects the judge’s function.