The Problem-Solving Process
You may follow a problem-solving process without being able to describe it immediately. Writing down your steps makes that approach available for examination.
THE IDEA
People who struggle to describe how they solve problems may recognize a consistent process when they reflect on their actions. Naming those steps makes it possible to examine and revise the approach. The specific process introduced in the source is not supplied in this excerpt.
When to use it
Asking a team to describe the steps it follows when solving a problem.
Teaching students a systematic method for tackling math or science problems.
Improving personal decision-making by writing down each step when facing a major life choice.
Debugging technical issues in software development by following a defined process (define, analyze, test, fix, verify).
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Illustrative Interview Response
A job candidate is asked 'How do you solve problems?' and initially freezes, but after a moment describes steps like defining the problem, gathering information, generating alternatives, evaluating options, and implementing a solution—revealing an unconscious process.
Illustrative Five-Step Process
One possible process for a project manager is: identify the issue, analyze root causes, brainstorm solutions, select and implement the best option, then review results. This structured approach reduces errors and improves team collaboration.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
What steps do you typically follow when faced with a complex problem? Can you list them explicitly?
Think of a recent problem you solved. Did you follow a process consciously or unconsciously? How might formalizing that process improve your outcomes?
How does the problem-solving process differ across contexts (e.g., personal vs. professional)? Could you adapt it for different domains?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Thinking in Systems and Mental Models Think Like a Super Thinker (Dawson, Marcus P)