Quick Tips - Effective Problem Solving

1. Solving problems tests your ability to apply theoretical concepts. Both abstract thinking and computation are required.

2. Most courses have only a few key concepts that will reappear in novel contexts. Look for the "spiral of learning": identify and understand these concepts deeply.

3. Organize concepts to see connections, and improve recall.

4. Use a systematic approach to stay focused, isolate errors in logic or computation, and reduce the panic.

5. Read to define the question fully: what is known? unknown? asked for? what is the significance of each different part?

6. Solve what you can initially. Think about problems using the same concepts (Newton's 2nd Law, complementarity in base- pairing, equilibrium and Le Chatelier's principle, net asset) that may use similar methods of solution.

7. In class: pay attention to the steps the prof. follows (the thought process) in addition to the computations.

8. Describe your thoughts as you solve a problem. Monitor yourself: are you on task? Do you remember your purpose in doing "x"? What's the next step?

9. Work with a good problem solver and compare your thought process to theirs.

10. Working in groups can be helpful to share ideas, but do some of each problem type yourself...exams are solo events!

11. STOP if you plug in an equation that has the exact variables as the problem. Focus on identifying concepts...not memorizing formula.

12. STOP if you try to use solutions from other problems that don't apply.
Focus on identifying underlying concepts first.

13. Set time limits for homework questions (20 minutes??) and get help if needed.

14. Keep up with the homework...this material is taught sequentially.

15. In labs: relate experiment or process to problems in class. Do specific equations describe phenomenon being observed in the lab?

16. Check your work using a different method, if possible.

17. Go to the Quantitative Problem Solving module for more strategies 

 

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