Problem Solving Stages Almost Any

Problem Solving Stages

Almost any human activity or goal can be stated in a "problem" form, with the plan of action then setting about to solve this problem. An understanding of the problem solving process, then, can assist an individual in achieving practically anything they set out to do, or at least in developing a system for achieving this success. The stages of the problem solving process will be explained and examined below, using the extremely simple example of making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich -- not generally though of as problematic, but a process-oriented task nonetheless.

Before anything else, one must be aware of the problem before it can be solved. Presumably, someone wanting to make a peanut butter sandwich is hungry and has already decided to address this situation with said sandwich; it can be assumed that they are aware of the need to actually make the sandwich. Next, the causes of the problem must be analyzed (DuBrin 2004). The peanut butter, jelly, and bread are all stuck in their separate containers, not yet joined into the cohesive whole -- this is the essential dilemma that must be overcome. Though this might seem ridiculously simplistic in this scenario, being able to identify the specific causes of a more complex problem is essential in developing an effective solution (DuBrin 2004).

After the causes of the problem have been analyzed, the search for creative solutions must begin -- this is the real "essence...of effective problem solving" (DuBrin 2004). There are many ways to remove peanut butter and jelly from their respective jars, and slices of bread from the bag, and there are even more ways of combining these ingredients into a sandwich. Examining the available methods (especially the first time a problem is encountered) is necessary to ensure that the most effective method can be selected and implemented.

Choosing which alternative out of those that have been identified represents the next step in problem solving. From the created list of possible alternatives, the one that most effectively and most efficiently solves the problem is generally considered to be the best solution, all other things being equal (Hopkin 2008). With a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, for instance, one would probably choose to use a table knife to extract desired amounts of peanut butter and jelly from their jars rather than shaking them upside down until the contents fall out, as this latter method would be messier, more time consuming (especially for the peanut butter), and would not assist in the spreading of these substances on the bread in the way a knife would.