Quote Originally Posted by Crusty View Post
The skill I was referring to is the skill that it takes to design everything, even if only mentally, so that it all comes together solidly and that things fit when they do come together. I'm still not quite there since I usually have to mod things mid-build in my projects to recover from something I overlooked in the design phase. Love it when a plan comes together the way it was planned.
Something I fine very very useful is when you think you have your design done, explain how it works to someone else. They should have at least a modicum of knowledge about how whatever you're designing works (building, plumbing, circuit, ...). Many is the time it's saved me, as in "there's no source of 2.5 volt power!" or "are you sure that will fit in the space allowed".

Most of the time you'll catch your own mistake while explaining it. The person listening may catch it but it's more likely you will.