Problem Solving: Basics

Problem Solving is a crucial skill that is desired in many fields in the real world. Problem Solving focuses
on solving problems in various steps to ensure the selection of the best solutions out of a list and
compare the available solutions thoroughly in terms of many factors.

The first primary step for problem solving is “Defining the problem”. That involves using the “5 W.s and H”
which are: why, when, what, where, who, and how. This step is crucial to start with the problem-solving
steps and coordinating the direction where the problem-solving steps go through.

The second primary step is to consider all possible options, that is without looking into their impact
because their impact will be weighted later. Listing all the options helps in picking out any potential
solution which could be chosen if fit to the required criteria.

The third primary step is to list the positives and negatives per option. Which involves listing how that
option would have an impact on the victim positively or negatively.

The fourth primary step is to weigh the positives and negatives of each option. This step might be
considered the second hardest step among all. That is due to how important it is. This step provides a
clearer path towards (possibly) the correct group of options and clearing out the unfit options among all.
This step typically uses “points” given to the options according to their suitability to the circumstance.

The fifth primary step is to select the best option among all. Of course, this step would be the hardest
because of how crucial it is. The hardness of the step depends on the gap between the points given to
each option. If two or more options have the same number of points, a return to the third step might be
needed. Where an increase in the positives and negatives for both options would help choosing between
them.

The sixth primary step is the implementation of the selected option. Nothing much can be said about this
step because it strictly depends on the field the problem is associated with. Main points included in this
step might be Person(s) or partners responsible for this step, Arrangements due and resources needed
for the implementation, completion date, and evidence of progress which is largely focused on in the next
step.

The seventh step is to monitor the progress of the selected option. That includes observation, progress-
report and conducting surveys and interviews.

The eighth and final primary step is to review the solution from a viewer point of view and try (if possible)
to improve the solution further seeking to achieve perfectness.

These eight steps of problem solving drastically facilitate decision-making in the situation of facing a
problem in any field of the real world. That being said, these problem-solving steps are just primary steps
for solving the problem, so it is your turn to decide the appropriate procedures for solving the problem
under your own technique that fits your condition.