| :: HowToSolve |
Last updated: Sunday, February 10, 2008 |
Problem-Solving Strategies
Four-Step Approach
- FIND OUT
Look at the problem - Have you seen one like it before? What facts do you have? What do you know that is not stated in the problem?
- CHOOSE A STRATEGY
C, F, M, T, G, S, E, P
- SOLVE IT
Use the strategy you selected to work the problem (use a new strategy if it doesn't work).
- LOOK BACK (CHECK)
Reread the problem. Did you answer the question that was asked? Are the units correct? Is your answer reasonable?
Strategy Categories
| (C) |
Compute or Simplify |
| (F) |
Use a Formula |
| (M) |
Make a Model or Diagram |
| (T) |
Make a Table, Chart, or List |
| (G) |
Guess, Check, & Revise |
| (S) |
Consider a Simpler Case |
| (E) |
Eliminate |
| (P) |
Look for Patterns |
|
|
|
