Problem Solving 101: A Simple Book for Smart People

hypothesis is a hunch. It’s what you think is the most likely explanation for your problem, but you

haven’t yet confirmed it.

Step 2: Develop the solution.

Step 1: Diagnose the situation and identify the root cause of the problem.

Sometimes when you’re developing a logic tree it helps to draw a picture. It will help you
identify the parameters that can be changed.

they never stop monitoring their own progress to make sure they’re headed
in the right direction

you make problem solving a habit, you’ll be able to make the most of your talents and take

control of your life. You can solve not only your own problems, but the problems of your school, your

business, and your community—and maybe even the world.

life.

Problem solving is easy when you know how to set a clear goal, figure out how to reach it, and

follow through while reviewing your progress and making changes to your plan as necessary.

? Is it

accurate, up-to-date, and unbiased? What actions could I take to improve the attractiveness

of my options?

We’ve learned a lot from Kiwi, but even she could have gone further in evaluating her options.

things and more time thinking about actions you can take

to get closer to your goals, then actually take action.

• Ask for advice. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Look for

information to help you make the best decision in the given time.

• Challenge your own thinking processes and your conclusions. Ask the following

questions:

• What are the pros and cons? Do I have the full list? Which option looks more

attractive considering both the pros and the cons? Are the pros and cons really pros and

cons? What actions could I take to enhance the pros and to minimize or eliminate the cons?

• What are the specific criteria I should be using? Do I have the right ones? Am I

weighting each criterion the right way?

• Is my evaluation correct? What information am I basing my evaluatio

Problem-solving kids are great decision makers. They rarely regret their choices, because they take

the time beforehand to consider all their options and figure out the best decision for them personally.

In this class, we’ll see how Kiwi, a young soccer star, goes about choosing a new school. Kiwi is

a smart kid, and she always makes sure she knows what she’s getting into