Answer:
IDENTIFY the problem
In a nutshell, my definition of problem-solving skills is very simple: it is the ability to identify the nature of a problem, deconstruct it (break it down) and develop an effective set of actions to address the challenges related to it.
Indeed, in some challenging situations many students are overwhelmed with emotions and see just big obstacles, barriers or trouble. However, great problem solvers try usually to identify the very roots of the problematic situation – the nature of a particular problem which can be clearly distinguished, addressed and ultimately solved. It is not enough to say that the situation is bad or out of control, as this is very abstract and unhelpful. It is more important to clarify where those problems and challenges come from. Albert Einstein once said: “The formulation of the problem is often more essential than its solution, which may be merely a matter of mathematical or experimental skill.”
