Problem-Solving

Convergent thinking problems are those problems that have known solutions that can be reached by narrowing down the possible answers, whereas divergent thiking problems have many possible solutions. Some solutions work; some do not.

Solution Strategies

An algorithm is a prescribed method of problem solving that guarantees a correct solution if the method suits the problem and if it is carried out properly. Solving a mathematical problem by use of a formula is an example of the use of an algorithm.

Insight solutions or Eureka insights occur when a sudden solution comes to mind - that "a-ha" idea.

Thinking-outside-the-box occurs when a person does not follow strict self-imposed constraints and looks at a problem differently.

Heuristics are rules of thumb that help to simplify and solve problems, though they do not guarantee a correct solution. Many types of heuristics are in use. We use the representative heuristic to estimate the probability of one event based on how typical it is of another event. We use the availability heuristic to make decisions based on the ease with which estimates come to mind or how available they are to our awareness.

Problem representation, defining or interpreting the problem, is the first step in problem solving. We decide what the problem is and what steps we are going to use to solve the problem. Expertise in a field increases a person's ability to interpret a particular problem.

Trial and error is a problem-solving strategy based on the successive elimination of incorrect solutions until the correct one is found. But trial and error is time-consuming, and a hit-or-miss approach.

Hill climbing is a heuristic in which each step moves the problem solver closer to the final goal.

Another heuristic is the creation of sub goals-intermediate, more manageable goals that may make it easier to reach the final goal.

Means-end analysis, a heuristic that combines hill climbing and sub goals, aims to reduce the discrepancy between the current situation and the desired goal at a number of intermediate points.

Working backward involves working from the desired goal back to the given conditions.

 

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