Problem-solving strategies and techniques

Problem Solving

Problem Representation and Problem Solution Dynamics

Problem solving is a demand which is constantly upon us. Life is a series of tasks which may be impeded by any number of challenges and aided by any number of strategic methods. However, the demands which are placed upon the individual in solving such problems are not necessarily met without some organization of information. This organization is referred to in our text as problem representation, and is the process by which an individual will come to mentally define the nature of the problem, the context in which the problem exists, the various factors which have created it and the logical parameters framing this problem.

The primary text refers to this as the 'space' within which the problem exists, and the representation is that which will be used by the individual in order to decipher those aspects of the situation which may be used to recognize suitable problem solutions. The text denotes that "the process of problem representation may seem automatic or trivial in some respects, but it is a critical component of successful problem solving. And the ways in which problems can be represented are as varied as problems themselves." (Robinson-Riegler & Robinson-Riegler, 449)