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2 Problem-Solving Strategies Free Online FlashCards

Study 2 Problem-Solving Strategies with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.

12 cards
01
Front

What should you identify when representing a problem?

Back

Identify the starting state, goal, relevant constraints, and possible actions.

02
Front

What is an algorithm in problem solving?

Back

An algorithm follows a defined sequence of steps and can guarantee a solution when complete and correctly applied to a problem it covers.

03
Front

When is an algorithm a suitable choice?

Back

Use an algorithm for a well-defined problem when correctness matters and a reliable procedure is available.

04
Front

What is a heuristic?

Back

A heuristic is a practical rule of thumb that guides a search, usually faster than exhaustive methods but without guaranteeing a correct answer.

05
Front

How does means–ends analysis work?

Back

Means–ends analysis compares the current state with the goal, selects actions to reduce the differences, and creates subgoals when obstacles must be removed first.

06
Front

In the report example, what subgoal follows continued printer failure?

Back

If the printer still fails, finding another printer becomes a subgoal; using a nearby library may then help deliver the printed report on time.

07
Front

What does breaking a task into subgoals involve?

Back

Break a broad objective into manageable steps and track which steps are complete.

08
Front

How does working backward solve a problem?

Back

Start from the required endpoint and ask what must happen immediately before it, continuing backward until you reach the present.

09
Front

How should analogy be used in problem solving?

Back

Recall a problem with a similar underlying structure and adapt its solution, checking that the important constraints also match.

10
Front

What makes trial and error controlled?

Back

Change one relevant factor at a time, record what you tried, and use each outcome to guide the next attempt.

11
Front

What is mental set?

Back

Mental set is persisting with a familiar method after it stops working.

12
Front

How can you respond when familiar problem-solving methods become barriers?

Back

Restate the goal and constraints, separate essential rules from assumptions, and generate an alternative representation or method.