How to Solve It

George Polya's 1945 book How to Solve It (ISBN 0691080976) is a small volume describing methods of problem-solving. It suggests the following steps when solving a mathematical problem:

Related Topics:
George Polya - 1945 - Book - Problem-solving - Mathematical problem

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• First, you have to understand the problem.
• After understanding, then make a plan.
• Carry out the plan.
• Look back on your work. How could it be better?

His book contains a dictionary-style set of strategies, but is not a cook-book. For example:

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• Working backward from the goal to the start.
• Looking for a similar problem.

The technique 'have I used everything' is perhaps most applicable to formal educational examinations (e.g. n men digging m ditches) problems.

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However perhaps because so little is written on the basic mechanics of problem solving, the book has achieved 'classic' status.

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Other books on problem solving are often related to more creative and less concrete techniques. See lateral thinking, mind mapping and brain-storming.

Related Topics:
Lateral thinking - Mind mapping - Brain-storming

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