Problem Solving Techniques: Methods with Examples

Problem Solving Skills and Techniques

Last Update Date: 30 April 2021

Problem solving techniques and strategies help people effectively handle the challenges they face in their life, whether it is personal, professional or academic. Critical thinking and problem-solving are essential for children and adults alike to learn the skills, best practices, and creative techniques to identify causes and solutions.

Let’s see how to improve your and your child’s problem solving skills.

HOW DO I IMPROVE MY PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS?

Practice makes perfect. There are always multiple approaches to solving any problem and the right approach will often change depending on the context. However, over time, you’ll develop the experience to recognise and identify the correct approach. It’s important always to exercise judgement and take time to read the situation correctly before jumping straight into finding solutions.

The formal education system has traditionally based its curriculum heavily on memorisation. However, in recent decades, schools have begun adding courses to develop broader thinking, reasoning and problem-solving skills. This was an important step in helping kids develop genuine long-term problem-solving abilities, instead of memorising formulas to find temporary solutions.

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Developed by academics and education specialists, MentalUP is an education app with a library of fun exercises to challenge your thinking and problem-solving skills. All the exercises have been designed in game format, so it’s enjoyable for children and adults alike.

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HOW SHOULD I APPROACH PROBLEMS?

Here is a 6-step problem solving technique.

Identify the problem: In order to detect the problem, it’s important to list out the factors involved.
Describe the problem: Clarify all the ‘known’ and ‘unknown’ elements in the problem.
Find multiple solutions: Can all the ‘known’ and ‘unknown’ elements be connected in a way that reveals the solution? Do we have sufficient knowledge to identify the solution? Is there more than one solution?
Investigate the solutions: Identify the best solution for solving the problem.
Apply the chosen solution to the problem: Test your solution and cross-check the result with all the original information provided.
Evaluate the results: Are you happy with the result? Did you expect this answer? Does it appear to be correct?