Problem-solving is one of those skills that is in high demand. Many employers rate it as one of the most important traits they look for in prospective employees. It is also usually listed as an important learning outcome in many of the classes you in take in college including math classes, psychology classes, and even this class! But, it is often not taught at all or very well.
One reason why this is the case is because of a confusion relating to what kinds of problems are being solved. It is often assumed that by practicing any kind of problems for which you don't have an answer you will learn the skills appropriate to solve any problem. But, this is simply not true. Since there are different types of problems learning how to solve one type won't necessarily help you build the skills you need to solve the other type. So, let's begin by distinguishing two types of problems: puzzles and mysteries.
In his book Curious: The Desire to Know and Why Your Future Depends on It, Ian Leslie defines these two types of problems very well: puzzles and mysteries.
"Puzzles have definite answers. Puzzles are orderly; they have a beginning and an end. Once the missing information is found, it's not a puzzle anymore." Most of the problems you encounter in your college math courses are in reality puzzles. They have definite answers and are orderly. Also, the information you need to solve them is right there in the question! And, if you need extra help you can just turn back to the chapter in the text which discusses how to solve these particular type of problems.
I know what you're thinking. Sure, these are real world problems and I've even faced some of them but how can I build the skills I need to solve these problems before taking these problems on? It does no good to practice on these very difficult problems. Â
2. Learn as much as you can about as many topics as you can. Solving mysteries often involves drawing on knowledge from a variety of sources. It is quite likely that many of the things you're now learning (even those you think are irrelevant) may turn out to be helpful at some point in solving a problem. So, take advantage of the opportunity to really learn about psychology, biology, history, mathematics, and all the other subjects you're learning now. That time will pay off.
3. Make connections. A lot of problems are solved by finding interesting, creative connections between seemingly unrelated topics. A good example here is Steve Jobs' application of his knowledge of calligraphy to the Apple operating system. Another is the psychiatrist Jeffrey Schwartz's development of a treatment for OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) by combining Buddhism and Austrian economics.
4. Read books about mysteries, problem solving, and even mystery novels. Sherlock Holmes is a great place to start. Reading the Conan Doyle's stories of the great detective reveal some basic principles of problem solving which can apply to everyday life. Daniel Smith's book How to Think Like Sherlock is another good resource.
5. Solve simpler mysteries first. Rather than taking on the more complex type of real world problems mentioned above, begin with simpler, but still real, problems. Never mind solving your work-life balance problem right off. Start with solving this problem: How can I keep from losing my phone every time I get ready to go somewhere?
6. Adopt a problem-solving mindset. Be observant of your surroundings and attuned to what you can do to improve how you live, work, or do simple things. Thomas Edison exemplifies this mindset very well. He often presented his lab assistants with the following challenge. He would hand them some ordinary item (like an iron or a fountain pen) and say "There's a better way. Find it." Adopt that mentality in your life. Whatever you're doing ask whether there is a better way: easier, more efficient, more effective.
7. Learn about design thinking. Lastly, you may want to learn about design thinking. I've made a few resources available that provide a brief introduction to the basic ideas of design. The important feature is to solve problems with the end user in mind. When you're trying to solve a problem be sure you understand for whom you are solving it and what their needs are. That will allow you to focus on the best solutions given what they're facing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hope this answer helps you :)
Have a great day
Mark brainliest
