Problem solving methods

A heuristic or heuristic technique (problem solving, mental shortcut, rule of thumb) is any approach to problem solving that employs a pragmatic method that is not fully optimized, perfected, or rationalized, but is nevertheless "good enough" as an approximation or attribute substitution. Where finding an optimal solution is impossible or impractical, heuristic methods can be used to speed up the process of finding a satisfactory solution. Heuristics can be mental shortcuts that ease the cognitive load of making a decision.

statistical principle about ratio of effects to causes

fundamental method of problem-solving, characterized by repeated, varied attempts which are continued until success, or until the practicer stops trying

debugging method, in which a programmer explains code, line-by-line, to an inanimate object ("rubber duck") or to another person, until the incongruity between what the code should do and actually does becomes apparent

questions whose answers are considered basic in information-gathering

iterative interrogative technique

methods devised to encourage creative actions

proof by examining all individual cases

method developed at Ford Motor Company used to approach and to resolve problems

type of question to predict knowledge on a topic

heuristic method

mental process of searching for an original and previously unknown solution to a problem

attempt of using engineering or technology to solve a problem

practiced technique of learning to "plant a seed" in one's mind for a specific dream topic to occur