Develops proposals (7)
I believe the answer is:
designs
This clue could be a double definition.
'develops' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to thinking as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'proposals' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for designs that I've seen before include "intended purposes" , "Plots" , "Plans" , "Intentions" , "'Blueprints, patterns (7)'" .)