How to Improve Problem Solving Skills

Problem solving is a vital skill in routine life, which is why employers are so keen on it. “Problem solving is all about applying logic to a given situation and come up with an intelligent solution”, says the owner of Santa Monica Study Abroad. The success of Apple’s Co-founder, Steve Jobs, lay in the fact that he was the greatest problem solver of his time. Therefore, many companies today are looking for problem solvers. Here is how you can utilize your time to enhance your problem-solving skills:

1. Identify the problem

In a nutshell, problem-solving skill is the ability to identify the nature of a problem, analyze it and plan an effective set of actions to address the prevailing challenges. Great problem solvers try to identify the nature of a specific problem which can be noticeably distinguished, tackled and ultimately solved.

2. Label the key elements of the problem

The next step in problem solving is an ability to break down the problem into smaller and more manageable bits by defining the key elements of the problem. It is a crucial step and a skill to develop both managerially and psychologically.

3. Analyze the possible solutions

Finding feasible solutions is a very tricky step in the problem-solving process, as initially it appears like most of the work is already done and the ultimate objective is close. Actually, you must not look for simplistic ways to deal with the elements of the problem. You should discover the most effective ways and change them into an opportunity to make a great success story.

4. Seek lessons to learn

Now, once the problem is solved, you must sit down with all your problem-solving strings and action plans, either alone or jointly if it is a group project. You must look back and see if there is a need to enhance the work that has been completed and learn lessons for future.