4 Problem Solving Techniques (and How To Use Them)
On many occasions a complex problem is presented to us and we do not know how to deal with it. Suppose, for example, that during the exam period, two assessments coincide and we don’t know how to start studying. Or let’s say that when solving a mathematical problem, we get blocked and don’t know how to take the next step.
Facing complex problems can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be more complicated than necessary. The key is to adopt the right mindset and use a methodology to address the situation at hand.
Decisions in complex circumstances or strategies when facing difficult problems may require the application of problem solving techniques to facilitate the path forward; through a series of known approaches or plans.
In this article We explore the different problem-solving strategies and models that can be applied to face these and reach a solution.
Problem-solving strategies or techniques are models that are based on previous experience and provide an approach when facing problems or analyzing possible solutions.
There are certain known problem-solving methods that come into play when we find ourselves facing a problem with no apparent solution to us. These methods are really useful in times when we seem to have no viable way out.
To avoid wasting time when solving a problem, brief strategic therapy is used, which uses problem solving techniques to analyze and solve problems quickly This approach allows you to avoid getting stuck in problems and going through them millions of fruitless turns.
Examples of problem solving techniques (and how to apply them)
There are many situations where people or groups get stuck. Problem solving techniques provide a simple and easy way to unblock the situation. There are four main techniques that people can use, as we explain below.
1. Stage technique
Imagining the goal or end scenario is essential for effective problem solving. After identifying a problem, we must ask ourselves what the scenario would be like after solving it We can also ask how the situation changes after improvements are made to the desired outcome. By imagining the end state, we can better understand the next step in solving the identified problem.
Working on a version of reality that does not exist in the present or the past allows people to discover the ideal characteristics of reality. Doing this can allow us to see things that would not be possible if we simply worked with current reality.
This technique, used by great inventors, It is known as “the fantasy of the perfect machine.” Leonardo da Vinci is a well-known example, cited many times; He faced the problem of how to fly, designing multiple designs of flying machines, which no one had before been able to conceive or imagine.
Imagination can be unleashed through the act of thinking Everyone has the ability to imagine a future better than their current situation. The only problem is that most people don’t know how to use this skill. The scenario technique helps to imagine what is possible, and then implement it: the first step is brainstorming; Then, only those aspects that are feasible are selected.
Although it may seem like just a fantasy, the scenario technique beyond imagining the possible solution can indicate a procedure. This technique makes use of self-fulfilling prophecies in a certain way; it allows us to guide them towards concrete results instead of letting them harm us. We all tend to build these types of fantasies, but the trick is knowing how to direct them in a functional direction.
It is also useful consider what the world would be like if a problem were solved, to get an idea of the collateral damage This is due to the well-known butterfly effect; Every time a change is made – even minimal – in a complex system, collateral effects occur. It is important to explore possible scenarios before making significant changes to avoid these unwanted effects.
2. Technique how to get worse
To apply the how-to-get-worse technique, it is important to not only look at failed solutions that have already been implemented, but also at potential solutions that could fail in the future. This allows a deeper understanding of the problem and why proposed solutions fail
To face the problem we must ask ourselves how we can make the situation worse instead of better. It is crucial that we try to list all the possible methods that could deteriorate the situation instead of improving it. Each of these methods should be described in such a way that it is clearly understood how to implement the strategies that would cause our project to fail instead of succeed.
By considering all the possible things that could go wrong, it creates a negative feeling towards those types of actions. Consequently, we avoid doing anything related to those possible scenarios If these solutions produce results contrary to our intentions, based on their avoidance, we must find an alternative method to deal with the problem. By taking a new perspective on the problem, you can create a viable solution that avoids counterproductive activities and blocks any actions that produce effects contrary to your intentions.
When looking for solutions, Most people will simply repeat the usual mental paths to find possible answers By forcing the mind to examine failed solutions, we can discover new alternative solutions thanks to the contrast that occurs. By forcing our reason to find ways to fail, we encourage our rationality to focus on new ways of thinking. This allows creative processes to move forward unhindered. Furthermore, by getting out of the trap of voluntary effort, we can find spontaneous solutions.
3. Climber technique
The technique takes its name from the practice of expert mountain guides. When planning a route, these They start at the top of the mountain and trace the planned path backwards until they reach the start or base This method is considered an improvement for drawing routes without deviating from the target; It also allows them to choose the easiest path to the top. Additionally, researchers have shown that this technique avoids routes or solutions that are significantly more difficult than expected.
Before attempting to solve a difficult problem, it is helpful to brainstorm possible solutions starting with the end goal. And then consider the previous steps until you reach the initial state. Once each step is imagined, we will have an efficient as well as effective strategy to address the problem. To complete a goal, It helps to break it down into smaller goals
4. Writer’s Block Technique
This technique takes its name from the famous block suffered by novelists who are unable to write despite trying hard. The writer who suffers from this type of block states that he has no more creativity and that his words will not arrive. Even though he sits at the typewriter and has an agreement with his publisher to deliver a novel, he is only able to write a few sentences at a time.
The problem is that the author who may suffer from this type of block has always implemented a method that required very little effort for himself. Before writing, I first developed the plot of the story and then organized the chapters in order These different episodes, when written, resulted in the ending of the story, this was not decided in advance. However, this way of writing stops working and the novelist’s biggest worry is that he has no idea how to proceed with his work.
Because the author wants to leave his or her imagination free for the development of the story and go wherever it takes him or her; He prefers not to decide on an ending before writing the novel and for it to be a consequence of the story itself. This same thing happens when we get stuck facing a problem and can’t find the way out ; By not having an identified solution, we are unable to advance in the different steps towards its resolution and we are blindly struggling. Instead of walking without knowing where we are going, the writer’s blocked technique suggests first deciding where we want to go: the end or the resolution of the problem.
Then, identify the different stages or chapters that are needed to achieve it. Finally, subdivide the stages into smaller ones, until you achieve a series of easy-to-execute microsteps. In this way, we are moving little by little towards the final result.
In conclusion…
In conclusion, when we face complex situations, people tend to get stuck, and go around a thousand fruitless turns around a problem. The different problem solving techniques allow us to adopt another perspective to clearly see the complete image and get out of the dead end in which we find ourselves.
