Problem solving

Problem solving is a mental activity related to intelligence and thinking.^[1] It consists of finding solutions to problems. A problem is a situation that needs to be changed.^[2] It suggests that the solution is not totally obvious, for then it would not be a problem.

A great deal of human life is spent solving problems. Social life is based on the notion that together we might solve problems which we could not as individuals.

Overview

Origin

The word "problem" comes from a Greek word meaning an "obstacle" (something that is in your way). If someone has a problem, they have to find a way of solving the problem. The way to solve it is called a solution.

Examples

Some problem-solving techniques have been developed and used in artificial intelligence, computer science, engineering and mathematics.^[3] Some are related to mental problem-solving techniques studied in gestalt psychology,^[4][5][6] cognitive psychology.^[7][8] and chess.^[9]

Nature

Problems can be classified as ill-defined or well-defined. Ill-defined problems are those that do not have clear goals, solution paths, or expected solution. An example is how to face threats which might perhaps be made in the future.^[10] Well-defined problems have specific goals, clearly defined solution paths, and clear expected solutions. These problems also allow for more initial planning than ill-defined problems.^{[11] [better source needed]}

Being able to solve problems involves the ability to understand what the goal of the problem is and what rules could be applied to solving the problem. Sometimes the problem requires abstract thinking and coming up with a creative solution.^[source?]

References

1. Wason P.C. & Johnson-Laird P.N. 1968. Thinking and reasoning: selected readings. Harmondsworth: Penguin.
2. "A problem arises when a living thing has a goal, but does not know how this goal is to be reached". Karl Dunker, in On problem solving. APA Psychological Monographs. 58 #5.
3. Polya G. 1945. How to solve it: a new aspect of mathematical method. Princeton University Press.
4. Wertheimer, Max [1945] 1959. Productive thinking. Harper & Row, enlarged edition.
5. Duncker, Karl 1926. A qualitative (experimental and theoretical) study of productive thinking (solving of comprehensible problems). Pedagogical Seminary and Journal of Genetic Psychology 33: 642–708. ISSN 0885-6559
6. Duncker, Karl 1945. On problem solving. APA Psychological Monographs 58 #5.
7. Simon, Herbert A. 1969. The sciences of the artificial. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. ISBN 9780262264495
8. Simon, Herbert A. 1979. Models of thought. Yale University Press, part 4: Problem solving. ISBN 0-300-02347-2
9. De Groot, Adriaan D. 1965. Thought and choice in chess. The Hague, Mouton.
10. Kahn, Herman 1962. On thinking about the unthinkable. New York: Horizon Press.
11. Schacter D.L. et al 2009. Psychology. 2nd ed, New York: Worth Publishers, 376.