Problem Solving Techniques for Beginners

Problem-solving can be a very difficult task. But when a specific method is used, the problems can be solved much more easily.

General Problem-Solving Technique

A technique for solving any type of problem involves:

• Identify what’s being given
• Clarify what’s being asked
• Select a strategy (trial and error, search, recall, deductive reasoning, working backwards, etc)
• Solve using the selected strategy
• Review your answer

Problem-Solving Technique for Word Problems

A problem-solving strategy that turns the above “general” strategy into a strategy specifically for solving word problems is the KUDOS method:

• K = Known (identify the known)
• U = Unknown (identify the unknown)
• D = Definition (identify definitions, equations, equalities, constants needed)
• O= Output (use your definitions to output an answer)
• S = Substantiation (check appropriateness, units and significant figures of your answer).