2. Define the problem (GIVENS).
Clarify your objectives (GOAL).
Identify alternatives (OPERATIONS).
Analyze the consequences.
Make a choice.
The Decision-Making /
Problem-Solving Process
4. • Algorithm
–methodical, logical rule or procedure that
guarantees solving a particular problem
Problem Solving
• Heuristic
–rule-of-thumb strategy that often allows
us to make judgments and solve problems
efficiently
5. –rule of thumb for judging the likelihood of
things in terms of how well they seem to
represent, or match, particular
prototypes
–Conjunction fallacy
• Linda is a bank teller
• Linda is a bank teller and is active in the feminist
movement.
Representative Heuristic
6. –judging the likelihood of an event
based on how readily available other
instances are in memory
–Fluency
Availability Heuristic
8. Classic Problems and Solutions
• Generate-and-test
• Means-ends analysis
Current State Goal
9. • Means-
• Workin
• End State
Classic Problems and Solutions
• Means-ends analysis versus
• Working backwards
• Initial State
10. Classic Problems and Solutions
• Solving by analogy
– Using a solution to a related problem
– Requires seeing the similar structure & inference
11. Classic Problems and Solutions
• Solving by analogy
– What factors determine if an analogy is seen as
appropriate?
– Time - Similarity
12. Gestalt Problem Solving
• Köhler’s chimps demonstrated insight learning
(sudden understanding of a problem that implies
the solution).
Insight Learning Chimpanzee Problem Solving
16. • Belief Bias
– the tendency for one’s preexisting beliefs to
distort logical reasoning
– Confirmation bias
• Belief Perseverance
– clinging to one’s initial conceptions after the basis
on which they were formed has been discredited
Further Obstacles to
Problem Solving
17. • Overconfidence
• Framing: the way an issue is posed
–how an issue is framed can significantly
affect decisions and judgments
Overcoming Obstacles to
Problem Solving
