# How to Learn Creative Skills Creativity is a learnable skill, here's how to master it. - **Source:** [Scott H Young](https://www.scotthyoung.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-16 - **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/79b7464c-6b35-4610-ad5c-10785f5e5afd ## The Two Components of Creative Skills Creative skills are divided into two main components: technical and ideational. Technical skills are practical abilities that can be developed through practice, while ideational skills involve originality and value creation. ## The Importance of Technical Skills Technical skills form the foundation of creativity. For example, drawing a portrait or playing a complex guitar solo requires technical mastery. These skills can be developed through methodical practice. ## The Role of Ideational Skills Ideational skills are the essence of creativity. Generating original and valuable ideas can be more challenging than technical skills. These skills are developed through experience and creative thinking. ## How to Achieve Technical Proficiency Technical proficiency is achieved through methodical practice. First, learn the methods used, then practice them intensively. Minimize errors to internalize the correct techniques. ## Developing Ideational Skills Ideational skills are developed through creative thinking and experience. Gaining different perspectives, generating new ideas, and applying them contribute to the growth of these skills. ## The Importance of Methods Methods play a critical role in learning creative skills. Initially learned explicitly, methods become automatic with practice, forming the foundation of the skill. ## Practice and Fluency Intensive practice and fluency are essential for technical mastery. Practice ensures the skill is learned correctly, while fluency allows for effective application. ## The Balance Between Creativity and Technique Great artists balance technical and ideational skills. Some excel in technical mastery, while others stand out in ideational creativity. ## The Importance of Creative Skills Creative skills are crucial for personal development and professional success. Developing both technical and ideational aspects helps individuals unlock their creative potential. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.scotthyoung.com/blog/2026/07/16/how-to-learn-creative-skills/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._