Path for Learning Effective Problem Solving

Level 1: Getting Started

  1. Describing problems and problem solving.
  2. How to effectively solve any problem.
  3. Problems, Tasks, Projects, Goals, and such.
  4. DIY versus Hiring Others versus Guiding Others.
  5. Complex and Complicated Problems.

Level 2: Solving Small Problems

Level 3: Solving Any Problem

Level 4: Project Management

Level 5: Leading and Managing Others

Strategies for Problem Types

  1. Troubleshooting

  2. Building Math Models (solving textbook problems).

  3. Solving coding problems

  4. Solving people problems.

  5. Solving legal problems.

  6. Solving information problems.

  7. Solving

  8. Problems: A problem is a gap between current conditions (present state) and better conditions in the future (goal state). Effective problem solving (EPS) involves continually recognizing these gaps.

  9. Problem Solving: Problem solving is the process of recognizing a problem, figuring out how to solve it, and then solving it.

  10. Effective Problem Solving (EPS): EPS is a general method for solving problems that is reliable, enjoyable, and cost effective. The method involves envisioning the goal state, breaking this into subgoals, and then progressively reaching subgoals by generating solutions options, selecting the best ones, applying them, and then engaging in reflective thinking.

Fundamentals (Essential Parts) of EPS

  1. Trusting the Process: In EPS, you typically begin with little or no idea how to solve the problem and you let the process reveal the solution to you. Your job is to follow the process, stay open to possibilities, and have fun.

  2. Roles in Problem Solving. A role is an area of responsibility or concern. EPS involves tracking and prioritizing problems in each role.

  3. Present State: The present state refers to conditions as they exist right now. EPS involves accurate descriptions of the present state.

  4. Goal State in Problem Solving: The goal state is the best conditions that can exist in the future given the context.

  5. Analysis (Breaking a Problem Down): Analysis is the process of breaking a goal down into subgoals.

  6. Reflective Thinking: RT is the ongoing process of learning from past experiences by recognizing what is working well, fixing what is not yet good enough, and deciding the next steps for moving forward.

  7. Solution Path: The solution path is the specific direction you choose and the steps you take to move from the present state to the goal state.

  8. Solution Path In EPS, the solution path is the specific direction you choose and the steps you take to move from the present state to the goal state.
    Building it involves generating multiple possible approaches to a subgoal, evaluating them, and selecting the best one to three to form a clear, actionable route toward the goal.

  9. Planning
    In EPS, this involves converting the solution path into a detailed, step-by-step plan, including sequence, timing, and resource allocation.

  10. Execution
    Walking the solution path (following the plan) while effectively adapting to challenges and unexpected developments along the way.