Problem solving steps

Man works continuously to confront the obstacles that stand in his way towards achieving his goals, and in doing so he takes several steps to restore balance that may be affected by certain circumstances. Including forming a clear picture of the problem through the use of imagination and memory.

This internalization is transformed into external representations, such as drawings and symbols, to depict the problem and simplify the process of solving it according to a range of psychological and cognitive factors.

The method of dealing with problems plays a major role in setting goals and achieving them, and it is a skill that can be developed through experiences and learning from experiences. The procedures followed in this aspect include specific and clear steps, starting with diagnosing the nature of the problem and understanding its various aspects and the reasons that led to its emergence.

This is followed by the stage of investigating possible solutions by generating several ideas without worrying about their effectiveness at this moment. These solutions are then evaluated by reviewing all the proposed options and comparing them with specific criteria that take into account the specificities of the problem and the variables surrounding it.

Choosing the optimal solution comes based on the results of the previous stage, where the focus is on the solution that best suits the circumstances. This is followed by implementing the selected solution in an organized manner and may require several attempts to achieve the desired success.

Finally, the process of reviewing and evaluating the results continues, allowing the necessary adjustments to be made and the steps taken to be increased to ensure keeping pace with changes and continuously enhancing the chances of success in solving the problem.

Problem solving strategy

There are a variety of useful methods available to address diverse issues, and these methods can be applied to achieve effective solutions. Some of these methods include:

1- Algorithms

Implementing algorithms requires significant effort and time, and this strategy comes with many important benefits:

– Algorithms contribute greatly to providing reliable and precise answers.

– It is necessary to carefully follow the specified steps to ensure consistently correct results.

2- Trial and error or (try strategy)

This method consists of evaluating a range of different alternatives to address an issue, by eliminating options that do not yield fruitful results.

This method shows its efficiency, especially in situations where the choices are limited and known, and aims to reduce the range of options offered.

Working in this way depends on specific steps:

1. Prepare a list of all available options to solve the problem.
2. Evaluate the ability of each option to solve the problem by conducting preliminary experiments to examine its effectiveness.
3. Focus on capturing solutions that show the greatest likelihood of success.
4. Predicting the best possible solution that will eventually be reached.

3- Inference and simplification

This method is based on careful analysis and dividing large problems into small, understandable parts, which facilitates the process of understanding and arriving at ideal solutions. It also focuses on reducing the solutions offered to facilitate the selection process. For this method to be implemented successfully, specific steps should be followed:

First, the main causes of the problem must be identified after deep reflection.

Second, the smaller parts of the problem are dealt with first, which helps address its early beginnings.

Third, after solving part of a problem, it is possible to address it as a whole more effectively.

Fourth, this approach allows for clearly precise and simplified solutions.

4- Insight

This method represents a mental activity that occurs far beyond our daily awareness, and it may appear suddenly because it brings back to mind something we have encountered or something that has previously been dealt with.

Personal qualities that help solve the problem

Problem solving is an ability in which people make significant progress as they experience more and are exposed to different challenges. A skilled individual in this field must have qualities that help him investigate the finer details of the problem and come up with creative solutions.

It is important for him to have an optimistic and persevering outlook, and to have confidence in his personal abilities when facing challenges. Also, it is necessary to be precise in analyzing facts and using accurate information to support his thinking, preferring systematic and analytical thinking over assumptions that are not based on a logical basis.