Problem Solving Steps

The first thing a successful problem solver does when encountering a problem, is to evaluate the problem and make an overall assessment and plan.

This evaluation can be made by any child for any problem, if they follow our four step process, and work through the steps by describing them in their own words.

1. Understand (Know what the Problem Is)
   • Do I know what my goal is?
   • Do I understand all the rules?
   • Have I reread the rules and the challenge card?
2. Choose (Pick a Strategy or Strategies)
   • Refer to a list of strategies
   • Consider all possible strategies that may apply
   • Select a strategy or a combination of strategies
   • Relate the problem to similar problems solved in the past
3. Do (Work your way through to the solution)
   • Execute the chosen strategy
   • Monitor your success
   • Revise or apply different strategies as necessary
   • Don’t be afraid of starting over. Often a fresh start and a new strategy will lead to success
   • If one strategy isn’t working, be willing to try another one
   • Keep track of what you tried already and ideas for what to try next
   • Be willing to take risks!
4. Inspect (Look Back and Think About It)
   • Where did you have your breakthrough?
   • Are there any patterns worth remembering for the next challenge?
   • Describe the strategy that finally worked for you
   • Does your solution make sense?
   • Is there a more effective way to solve it?
   • Could you make up a similar or extended challenge?

To help memorize the four steps — remember U Can Do It!!! (Understand, Choose, Do and Inspect)

This four step process is based on work first introduced by George Polya in his 1947 book How to Solve It. This is a book still referred to by many problem solvers today.