The Practitioner Model of Creative Cognition is a model that I developed from several existing paradigms. It is based on Linda Flowers & John Hayes's 1981 Cognitive Process Model, a non-hierarchical model of the cognitive processes involved in composing a text. The Practitioner Model also incorporates Ward, Finke, & Smith's Geneplore Model of idea generation and exploration, which can help the creative practitioner evaluate the sources and evolution of creative ideas. It also embeds Makri & Blandford's notion of serendipity, a concept that maps out the factors leading to insight, and recognition of that insight. Lastly, the Practitioner Model is embedded within Csikszentmihalyi’s Systems Model of Creativity, acknowledging how the practitioner-researcher's knowledge is based in and influenced by their domain, how they shape their practice and their text to meet the needs of the field (the gatekeepers of knowledge within the research domain or area), and the individual conducting the research.

This model, while derived from a creative writing practice, is nonetheless adaptable to various creative disciplines. It's important for practitioner-researchers to develop models that work for their own domain and each individual project; this model demonstrates one way that can be done.