Problem-Solving Skills

1. Identifythe Problem 

Start by being clear about what the issue actually is. Problems feel bigger when they’re vague. Try writing it down in one short sentence, like: “I need to finish my assignment, but I also have football practice.” This makes the problem easier to tackle. 

2. Brainstorm All Possible Solutions

Next, list as many solutions as you can, even the ones that sound silly or unrealistic at first. The goal here isn’t to pick the “perfect” answer yet, but to see all the possible options on paper. Sometimes the best solution comes from an idea you didn’t expect. 

3. Weigh Up Pros and Cons

Look at each option and think about the good and bad sides. Ask yourself: “If I choose this, what might go well? What might be difficult?” Writing out the pros and cons helps you think more clearly instead of letting emotions make the decision for you. 

4. Choose a Solution

After looking at your options, pick the one that feels most realistic and helpful right now. Remember, there’s no such thing as a “perfect” solution. You just need the best option for this moment. 

5. Make a Plan

Break your solution into small, doable steps. Think of it like following a recipe—what’s the first step, the second, and so on? When you have clear steps, it feels less overwhelming and more achievable. 

6. Put the Plan into Action

Now it’s time to try it out. Take your first step and see what happens. You might want to note down when and how you did it (like writing the date and time), which helps you see that you’re actively working on the problem instead of just worrying about it. 

7. Review

After you’ve tried your plan, look back: Did it work? Did it make things easier? What did I learn? If it didn’t solve the problem completely, that’s okay. Sometimes you just need to adjust your plan or try another solution from your list. Every attempt gives you experience for the next time. 

 Don’t expect yourself to solve every problem perfectly the first time. The goal is progress, not perfection. Even trying these steps means you’re moving forward instead of staying stuck. 

Example 

Situation: Ali has an important science project due tomorrow, but his friends are pressuring him to join an online gaming session that same evening. 

• Identify the problem: “I have limited time, and I need to finish my project but also don’t want to upset my friends.” 

• Possible solutions: 

• Tell friends he can’t play tonight and focus fully on the project. 

• Play for just 30 minutes, then log off to finish the project. 

• Do the project first, then play afterward if there’s still time. 

• Pros and cons: 

• Skipping gaming = more time for the project, but friends might be disappointed. 

• Playing for 30 minutes = keeps social connection, but might still cut into focus time. 

• Finishing the project first = ensures work is done, and if there’s leftover time, he can play guilt-free. 

• Choose a solution: Finish the project first, then join the game if there’s time left. 

• Plan: Ali will start the project right after dinner, aim to finish by 9:30, and message his friends that he might join later if the work is complete. 

• Do: Ali completes his project by 9:20 and joins the game for 40 minutes. 

• Review: The plan worked well. The project was submitted on time, and he still got to hang out with his friends (even if only for a while). Next time, Ali wants to give his friends a heads-up earlier so they know why he can’t play as much.