Understanding the Problem
This term describes the starting point before any steps are taken in solving a problem.
What is the initial state?
This approach explores every possibility and always finds a solution, but can be slow and inefficient.
What is an algorithm?
These are the two essential characteristics of a creative solution.
What are novelty and usefulness?
These are the three necessary components to fully define a problem.
What are the initial state, goal state, and obstacles?
This shortcut method relies on general rules and often gives quick solutions without guarantees.
What is a heuristic?
This type of internal drive supports creativity because tasks are done out of enjoyment, not rewards.
What is intrinsic motivation?
This cognitive concept explains how environmental context helps us understand and solve problems.
What is situated cognition?
This strategy breaks problems into subproblems and reduces the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
What is the means-ends heuristic?
This cognitive bias causes people to see objects only in terms of their typical use.
What is functional fixedness?
This method of organizing information helps with tracking multiple categories during problem-solving.
What is a matrix?
This kind of problem is typically solved in a sudden flash of understanding.
What is an insight problem?
This mental habit causes people to keep using an old strategy, even when a better one is available.
What is a mental set?
This is what you create mentally to truly understand and solve a problem.
What is a well-organized mental representation?
This approach involves always choosing the step that seems to lead most directly to the goal.
What is the hill-climbing heuristic?
This performance-lowering effect occurs when someone feels pressure from a negative stereotype.
What is stereotype threat?