Step 1:
Identify the problem
The first step in solving a problem is always identifying it. Although this may seem redundant, this vital step is often skipped.
Please be aware of this step! DO NOT SKIP THIS.
This step reflects on the nature of the problem at hand.
It sometimes seems obvious what the problem is asking for and the information that is already provided. Even so, taking a few minutes to apply this step and truly analyze the problem can save hours in the future.
Please be aware of this step! DO NOT SKIP THIS.
This step reflects on the nature of the problem at hand.
It sometimes seems obvious what the problem is asking for and the information that is already provided. Even so, taking a few minutes to apply this step and truly analyze the problem can save hours in the future.
Dr. Donald E. Simanek (2004), an Emeritus Professor of Physics at Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania, suggests these first few steps in solving a physics problem that aligns with identifying the problem:
1. Read the problem carefully!
2. Terms: Do you know and understand the definitions of all words and terms used in the problem? If not, look them up with the aid of the index of your textbook. If you still don't quite understand them, try another book. Attempting a problem without knowing precisely what it means is futile; your time would be better spent learning basic definitions and principles.
2. Terms: Do you know and understand the definitions of all words and terms used in the problem? If not, look them up with the aid of the index of your textbook. If you still don't quite understand them, try another book. Attempting a problem without knowing precisely what it means is futile; your time would be better spent learning basic definitions and principles.
Dr. Simanek's steps are great things to consider when you first approach a problem. It allows you to organize your initial thoughts and focus on what the problem is really asking you to solve.
Two Types of Problems
You should look out for the two categories of problems: Well- and Ill-Defined. It is important to identify which type of problem you also have.
Well-Defined Problem A well-defined problem is a problem "in which the goal is clearly stated, all the information needed to solve the problem is present, and only one correct answer exists" (Ormrod, 2014, p. 134). These problems tend to be straightforward with a definite method to solve such as a basic math problem (ex. 2+2). |
An ill-defined problem is a problem "in which the desired goal is unclear, some information needed to solve the problem is missing, and/or several possible solutions to the problem exists" (Ormrod, 2014, p. 135). These problems tend to be more complex such as poverty, origins of the universe, and how to make someone happy.
Ill-Defined Problem 
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In introductory courses in physics, oftentimes the problems begin as well-defined. Sufficient amounts of information are provided, whether the problem solver thinks so or not, and there is a definite solution. However, as you go deeper into physics, or a related subject such as engineering, the problems could become increasingly ill-defined.
Identifying the type of problem you have encountered can help you later in the problem solving process to determine strategies you need to implement to find a solution.
Identifying the type of problem you have encountered can help you later in the problem solving process to determine strategies you need to implement to find a solution.
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Look back at the example problem (right) from the first page of the Path to Problem Solving.
Consider Dr. Simanek's first couple of steps for solving a physics problem. After reading the problem carefully, look at the terms the problem uses, such as "accelerates uniformly." Do you understand what the problem asks for the solver to answer? Is this problem an ill- or well-defined problem? Why? |
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