A method to solving a problem that reduces the distance between the goal state and initial state. It can involve establishing subgoals to get closer to a solution.

Means-end analysis

Small goals who's target is to reach intermediate states that are closer to a solution (goal state). Sometimes they may seem like steps backwards but are actually closer to the solution.

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Based in information processing theory of cognitive psychology.

Problem solving can be broken down into different states such as the:
- Initial state
- Goal state
- Intermediate states

The states can change through operators and strategy setting subgoals through means-end analysis.

Newell-Simon approach to problem solving

Goldstein, E. B. (2014). Cognitive psychology: Connecting mind, research and everyday experience. Nelson Education.


Cognitive psychology: Connecting mind, research and everyday experience

The conditions in the beginning of a problem.

Initial state in problem solving

Goal state in problem solving

Actions that change the state of a problem.

Operators

The task decomposition heuristic is a problem-solving strategy that involves breaking down a large or complex goal into a series of smaller, more manageable steps. This approach makes overwhelming tasks feel more achievable. It also helps in identifying errors and separating known elements from unknown ones, a technique famously used by physicist Enrico Fermi.

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