Overview
This lecture covers common strategies for problem solving, definitions and differences between algorithms and heuristics, and typical obstacles and biases that can impede effective decision-making.
Problem-Solving Strategies
- Problem solving requires clearly identifying the issue before applying strategies.
- Trial and error involves trying different solutions until finding one that works.
- Algorithms are step-by-step, formulaic procedures that guarantee a correct answer if followed precisely.
- Heuristics are general mental shortcuts used to solve problems quickly but are not always accurate.
- Working backwards starts from the desired goal and plans a path back to the current state.
- Breaking a large task into smaller steps helps make complex problems manageable.
Everyday Problem Solving
- Practice with puzzles (like sudoku) sharpens problem-solving skills.
- Spatial or logic puzzles test the ability to use different strategies, such as thinking "outside the box."
Pitfalls to Problem Solving
- A mental set is sticking to solutions that worked before, even if they're no longer effective.
- Functional fixedness is the inability to see alternative uses for an object beyond its usual purpose.
- Both mental set and functional fixedness can limit creativity and adaptability in problem resolution.
- Functional fixedness occurs across cultures, regardless of exposure to specialized tools.
Decision-Making Biases
- Anchoring bias is focusing too much on the first piece of information encountered.
- Confirmation bias is seeking out information that supports your preexisting beliefs.
- Hindsight bias is believing, after the fact, that an event was predictable.
- Representative bias is unintentionally stereotyping someone or something based on existing categories.
- Availability heuristic leads to decisions based on information that comes easily to mind, regardless of its accuracy.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Algorithm — A precise, step-by-step problem-solving formula that always yields the correct answer when followed.
- Heuristic — A general, efficient mental shortcut or strategy that simplifies problem solving.
- Mental set — The tendency to approach problems using a previously successful method.
- Functional fixedness — The inability to see new uses for familiar objects.
- Anchoring bias — Overreliance on the first piece of information offered.
- Confirmation bias — The tendency to notice and favor information that confirms one's beliefs.
- Hindsight bias — The belief, after an event, that it was predictable.
- Representative bias — Judging based on stereotypes rather than unique characteristics.
- Availability heuristic — Relying on immediate examples that come to mind when evaluating a topic.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of algorithms and heuristics in daily life.
- Practice solving various logic and spatial puzzles to enhance problem-solving skills.
- Watch linked videos on functional fixedness and cognitive biases for deeper understanding.