Problem Solving Methodology^*

0. Engage in the problem (motivation)

• I can do it!
• I want to do it!

1. Define the problem - Rubric for evaluating your performance on Step 1

• Read the problem statement again
• Define what the problem states in a way that makes sense to you
• Sketch the information given in the problem
• List what is given / known
• List any constraints
• Define a criterion for judging the final product (design) / answering the question (problem)
• Determine the real objective of the problem (ex. what do I need to calculate?)

2. Explore the problem - Rubric for evaluating your performance on Step 2

• Examine any issues involved
• Make all the necessary assumptions that will help you simplify the problem enough, so you can solve it using familiar  theories.
• Guestimate the answer

Albert Einstein quote

3. Plan the solution - Rubric for evaluating your performance on Step 3

• Select appropriate theory, principles, approach
• Map out any sub-problems
• List what needs to be found
• Write down all equations you need to carry out each step of the solution but do not substitute any numbers
• Draw free-body diagrams and control volumes as necessary

4. Implement the plan - Rubric for evaluating your performance on Step 4

• Substitute numbers into equations as necessary and carry out all calculations
• You may want to calculate several intermediate numerical results to make sure they make sense; it is difficult to pinpoint an error when all you have is the final numerical result and you know it can't be right!

5. Check the solution

• Check the accuracy of the calculations (redo)
• Check the units of the calculated parameters

6. Evaluate / Reflect on the Solution as well as on your Problem - Solving Process - Rubric for evaluating your performance on Step 6

• Is the answer reasonable? Does it make sense?
• Were the assumptions appropriate?
• How does it compare to guestimate?
• How could you improve your model to increase its accuracy?
• If appropriate, ask the question: is it socially / ethically acceptable?
• What were my strengths in solving this problem?
• What were my weaknesses in solving this problem?
• In what specific ways can I work on my weaknesses and improve my problem-solving skills?

*Woods D.R., Hrymak, A.N., Marshall, R.R., Wood, P.E., Crowe, C.M., Hoffman, T.W., Wright, J.D., Taylor, P.A.,
Woodhouse, K.A., Bouchard, C.G.K., Developing problem-solving skills: The McMaster problem-solving program.
ASEE J of Engng Educ., 86, 2, 75-91 (1997).