The lecturer in the listening talks about the role of breaks when solving a problem.

A break can be a
good strategy because it may influence the solution. The brain is given some additional time to
analyze the problem. Scientists think that even when dreaming there is unconscious mental activity
in the brain and during this condition one may think of a solution for a problem. However, there are
some debates about whether the person is awake when ideas come to him or not. According to the
author, the first step of solving a problem is problem representation. This includes identifying the
problem and distinguishing between relevant and extraneous information. Later in the lecture the
professor talks about the possibilities of coming up with an idea while having a break. First, there is
more time to get information for a solution. As it is said in the reading, the second step for solving a
problem is to think about the alternatives of a solution and by considering the advantages and
disadvantages to decide which one is the best. Second, the lecturer states that during a break one
may focus on something else and this can help him think in a new more productive way. The reading
passage points out that the solution can be improved by reviewing the problem and repeating the
problem-solving steps.