Here are seven-steps for an effective problem-solving process.

10 Everyday uses for Problem Solving Skills

1. Stuck in traffic and late for work, again.
2. What is that stain on the living room carpet?
3. What is that smell coming from my teenage son’s room?
4. I don’t think the car is supposed to make that thumping noise.
5. Why is the baby crying?
6. My daughter has a science project – due tomorrow.

Everyday problem solving refers to the ability to generate solutions to problems that take place in one’s everyday experiences. Everyday problem solving is assessed using psychological measures that include well‐ and/or ill‐defined problems.

1. Identify the issues. Be clear about what the problem is.
2. Understand everyone’s interests.
3. List the possible solutions (options)
4. Evaluate the options.
5. Select an option or options.
6. Document the agreement(s).
7. Agree on contingencies, monitoring, and evaluation.

1. Step One: Define the Problem. Step One is about diagnosing the problem – the context, background and symptoms of the issue.
2. Step Two: Determine the Root Cause(s) of.
3. Step Three: Develop Alternative Solutions.
4. Step Four: Select a Solution.
5. Step Five: Implement the Solution.
6. Step Six: Evaluate the Outcome.

The possible solutions are so heavily constrained that constructing even one feasible answer is difficult, let alone searching for an optimum solution. The person solving the problem is inadequately prepared or imagines some psychological barrier that prevents them from discovering a solution.

Of course, problem-solving is not a flawless process. There are a number of different obstacles that can interfere with our ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently. Researchers have described a number of these mental obstacles, which include functional fixedness, irrelevant information, and assumptions.