An illustration of the top of the statue of The Thinker by Rodin. There is a nest in his head, with three chicks sticking out, and their parent bird flying above.

Tools for Thought

Better thinking through AI

At CHI2025, we’re presenting four new research papers and cohosting a Tools for Thought workshop, that dives deep into the intersection of AI and human cognition.

Read our blog post summary

The Future of AI in Knowledge Work: Tools for Thought at CHI 2025 – Microsoft Research

CHI2025 Papers

The Impact of Generative AI on Critical Thinking: Self-Reported Reductions in Cognitive Effort and Confidence Effects From a Survey of Knowledge Workers – Microsoft Research
AI, Help Me Think—but for Myself: Assisting People in Complex Decision-Making by Providing Different Kinds of Cognitive Support – Microsoft Research
Are We On Track? AI-Assisted Active and Passive Goal Reflection During Meetings – Microsoft Research
YES AND: A Generative AI Multi-Agent Framework for Enhancing Diversity of Thought in Individual Ideation for Problem-Solving Through Confidence-Based Agent Turn-Taking – Microsoft Research

People

The Tools for Thought team is interdisciplinary, mixing experts in social science, computer science, engineering, and design. Our workstreams reflect this mix, combining depth in user research, cutting-edge technology, and new user experiences.