We solve problems and make decisions everyday/all the day

Problem solving series

Problem Solving and Decision Making

Project planning/organizing class projects

We solve problems and make decisions everyday/all the day:
at home, at work, at play, even at the grocery store!

Some problems and decisions are very challenging,
and require a lot of thought, emotion, and research.  The steps of this guide are designed to help you make good decisions
Good luck!

Flexibility

This procedure looks as if one moves neatly from step to step. This isn't the case. These steps simply provide a structure for working on the problem.

They overlap: you may have to return to earlier steps, or work them simultaneously,
to find the best solution.

Examples of flexibility:

• Information gathering occurs in all steps—from recognition of the problem to implementation of its solution
• New information may force you to redefine the problem
• Alternatives may be unworkable, and you'll have to find new ones
• Some steps may be combined or abbreviated

Problem solving overview

1. Defining the problem/considering causes/gathering information |
2. Developing/weighing alternatives |
3. Implementing decisions/monitoring progress |
4. Graphic overview of process
Finding creative solutions | Using analogies for problem solving |
Adaptive decision making | Managing by exception | Managing stress |
Motivating yourself | Problem based learning | The Role of silence