Solving a problem can be broken down into several steps. First, the problem must be identified correctly. Psychologists refer{{U}} (1) {{/U}}this step as problem representation. For many problems, figuring{{U}} (2) {{/U}}which information is relevant and{{U}} (3) {{/U}}is extraneous can be difficult and can interfere{{U}} (4) {{/U}}arriving at a good solution. Clearly, before a problem can be solved, it must be obvious{{U}} (5) {{/U}}the problem is, however, this is not as easy{{U}} (6) {{/U}}it might seem. One obstacle to efficient problem representation is functional fixedness, that is, allowing preconceived notions and even prejudices{{U}} (7) {{/U}}color the facts. Most people tend{{U}} (8) {{/U}}see objects and events in certain fixed ways, and by being inflexible in viewing the problem, they may be unable to notice the tools{{U}} (9) {{/U}}the solution. Once the problem is identified accurately,{{U}} (10) {{/U}}, the second step consists{{U}} (11) {{/U}}considering the alternatives for a solution. A common way to evaluate alternatives is to write them{{U}} (12) {{/U}}and then make a list{{U}} (13) {{/U}}advantages and disadvantages for each solution. Here again, people may be limited by prior experiences. Often people adopt mental sets{{U}} (14) {{/U}}lead them to the same problem-solving strategies that were successful for problems{{U}} (15) {{/U}}the past. Although that can be helpful most{{U}} (16) {{/U}}the time, sometimes a new situation requires a different strategy.{{U}} (17) {{/U}}that case, the mental set must be abandoned,{{U}} (18) {{/U}}new alternatives must be explored.
After the alternatives have been compared, a strategy must be selected{{U}} (19) {{/U}}among them. One way to avoid becoming mired in the options is{{U}} (20) {{/U}}try the best option with a view to abandoning it for another{{U}} (21) {{/U}}the results are unfavorable. This attitude allows many people to move on expeditiously{{U}} (22) {{/U}}the next step—action. The strategy selected must be implemented and tested. If it solves the problem, no further action is necessary, but if{{U}} (23) {{/U}}, then the cycle begins again, starting{{U}} (24) {{/U}}problem identification. By continuing to review the problem{{U}} (25) {{/U}}repeat the problem-solving steps, the solution can be improved upon and refined.