Yogācāra, also known as the "Mind-only" school, is a philosophical system within Buddhism that emphasizes the role of consciousness in shaping our perception of reality. This school of thought emerged in India during the 4th century CE and became influential in East Asian Buddhism, particularly in China and Japan.

One of the key differences between Yogācāra and other Buddhist schools of thought is its focus on the mind as the ultimate source of reality. While other schools, such as Theravada and Mahayana, also recognize the role of the mind in shaping our experience, they tend to view reality as existing independently of consciousness. In contrast, Yogācāra posits that all phenomena, including the external world, are a projection of the mind.

This view is based on the concept of "vijñapti-mātra," which translates to "consciousness-only." According to Yogācāra, our perceptions and experiences are not direct reflections of external objects, but rather constructions of the mind. This means that our understanding of reality is limited by our individual consciousness and can differ from person to person.

Another significant difference between Yogācāra and other schools of thought is its rejection of the concept of a permanent, unchanging self. In Yogācāra, the self is seen as a mere collection of constantly changing mental and physical processes, rather than a fixed entity. This aligns with the Buddhist concept of "anatman," or the lack of a permanent self.

Additionally, Yogācāra places a strong emphasis on the practice of meditation and introspection as a means of understanding the nature of reality. This is in contrast to other schools, which may prioritize other practices such as ritual and devotion.

One of the most notable aspects of Yogācāra is its use of the "Eight Consciousnesses" model to explain the workings of the mind. This model includes the five sense consciousnesses (sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch), the mind consciousness (thoughts and emotions), and the storehouse consciousness (a repository for all past experiences and potential future states). This model helps to illustrate the Yogācāra belief that all experiences are ultimately constructed by the mind.

In summary, Yogācāra differs from other Buddhist schools of thought in its emphasis on the mind as the ultimate source of reality, its rejection of a permanent self, its emphasis on meditation and introspection, and its use of the Eight Consciousnesses model. By understanding these key differences, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the unique perspective of Yogācāra within the broader Buddhist tradition.