An idea of an exercise, which actually involves some popular culture—which may make it more interesting for those involved. Agree on a set of books/movies/series/etc that can be used before starting, which participants are reasonably familiar with. Postulate a broad category of characters, e.g. “Good politicians”. Brainstorm a list of characters who fit this category and put the list onto a piece of paper or a whiteboard. Take turns in trying to narrow down the list by making the category more specific and crossing some characters off until only one remains who fits the very specific description, e.g. (crudely speaking) “Good and careful politicians” eliminates Viserys but keeps Varys, Tyrion, Littlefinger etc. (A Song of Ice and Fire) Variations may include trying to eliminate only one character in each turn etc.
This method allows to use complex and nuanced specifications, which situation is closer to IRL applications of “Be Specific”, but still to maintain some bounds in terms of the limits of the story. The disagreements arising in whether a character fits the classification immediately create scope for further specification, until a statement is made specific enough for both parties to agree.
An idea of an exercise, which actually involves some popular culture—which may make it more interesting for those involved. Agree on a set of books/movies/series/etc that can be used before starting, which participants are reasonably familiar with. Postulate a broad category of characters, e.g. “Good politicians”. Brainstorm a list of characters who fit this category and put the list onto a piece of paper or a whiteboard. Take turns in trying to narrow down the list by making the category more specific and crossing some characters off until only one remains who fits the very specific description, e.g. (crudely speaking) “Good and careful politicians” eliminates Viserys but keeps Varys, Tyrion, Littlefinger etc. (A Song of Ice and Fire) Variations may include trying to eliminate only one character in each turn etc. This method allows to use complex and nuanced specifications, which situation is closer to IRL applications of “Be Specific”, but still to maintain some bounds in terms of the limits of the story. The disagreements arising in whether a character fits the classification immediately create scope for further specification, until a statement is made specific enough for both parties to agree.