Before trying solutions, clarify the problem and the desired outcome. A printer that will not print a time-sensitive report presents more than a technical issue: the report must reach a supervisor by a deadline, so a successful solution must also meet the time requirement.
A useful starting process is to state what is happening, what outcome is needed, and what limits or resources matter. This prevents effort from being spent on details that do not address the actual goal.
All flashcards
What is trial and error?
A strategy in which a person tests different possible solutions until one works. It can be useful but may not be time-efficient.
What is an algorithm?
A step-by-step problem-solving procedure intended to achieve a specific result when followed correctly.
What is a heuristic?
A general framework or mental shortcut for solving a problem. It can save time, but does not guarantee a correct answer.
What is a mental set?
The tendency to keep using an approach that worked before, even when it is no longer effective.
What is functional fixedness?
Difficulty seeing an object as useful for a purpose other than the one for which it was designed.
Quiz questions
What characterizes a mental set?Answer: Persisting with a familiar approach even when it is no longer effective.
What is functional fixedness?Answer: Difficulty recognizing that an object can serve a different purpose.
Which description best fits confirmation bias?Answer: Favoring information that supports an existing belief.
What is hindsight bias?Answer: Believing after an event that its outcome was predictable all along.
Why can a heuristic be useful when time is short?Answer: It can reduce the time and effort needed to choose an approach.
Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.