PROBLEM SOLVING STRATEGIES

Problem Solving Strategies

Problem solving strategies

Introduction

We use the problem solving steps in our everyday lives.

When we face emergencies, deadlines, critical situations, and decisions, which call for action, often we respond to our instinct and just as often we make judgments in haste. No matter if the issues are personal, educational or business, occasionally we do not take the time to consult with those "who have been there, done that" At times we do not investigate the resources available (Listwan, 2004, 52-53).

Strategies of the problem solving

There are a total of 6 steps in the problem solving steps.

Step 1: Identify the problem; this is the first step toward solving a problem. You cannot solve a problem until you know what you are trying to solve.

Step 2: Understand the problem; You must understand what is involved in the problem before you can continue toward the solution. This also includes understanding the knowledge base of the person or machine for which you are solving the problem for. Knowing the knowledge base is very important since you cannot use any instructions outside of this base. You need to understand what is involved because you cannot write a set of instructions involving calculus if you do not know calculus yourself. If you do not understand the problem, you will not know where to begin solving the problem (Listwan, 2004, 52-53).

Step 3: Identify alternative ways to solve the problem; this list should be complete as possible. You may want to speak with other people to find other solutions then those you have identified. Alternative solutions must be reasonable ones. The more solutions you identify the better chance you have of picking the best solution possible.

Step 4: Select the best way to solve the problem from the list of Alternative solutions; in this step, you need ...