This problem solving procedure outlines the critical steps in the problem-solving thinking process. The procedure is useful for answering questions on exams, as well as for solving research problems and homework sets. It can even be used for fixing things around the house! It is also easy to use. Start with Step (1) with your question or problem and then progress through the steps until you get stuck on a certain one. At this point, don't panic; simply go back to Step (1) and repeat the process with a new question designed to resolve the crisis that arose. When Step (7) is reached and the new question has been answered, return to the crisis point with your new fact or value and continue. This crisis resolution process may be repeated as many times as is necessary until the original question has been answered. The structure is similar to several nested DO loops in a computer program. May you master this procedure earlier than I did and engrave it somewhere in your brain.

1. Restate the question so that it is clear which fact or numerical value is to be found.
2. Draw a picture and write a word list of all reasonable facts and terminology.
3. Attempt to determine which of these facts are irrelevant and eliminate them.
4. Facts that remain should fit into an equation that defines a key relationship; write the equation.
5. Solve the equation for the variable that is most related to the answer desired.
6. Ask yourself if you need any other variables to get closer to the answer.
7. Does this result answer the question? If yes, then stop and write down the answer. If not, then start again with blank paper at Step (1), asking yourself a new question that will yield another new fact or new value. Cautionary note: Be sure to carefully evaluate the data before answering the question; use some judgement. If necessary, then alter your question to match your answer.