Introduction to Problem Solving

On completion of studying this chapter, you should be able to: 1. Explain concepts related to problem solving and identify problem types; 2. Identify and explain problem solving methods; 3. Exemplify solvable and unsolvable problems; 4. Interpret given problems and formulate solutions to them using flowchart, pseudo code and/or other formalisms; 5. Apply appropriate strategies and procedures to arrive at workable solutions to problems; and 6. Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills required throughout the computing career.

Introduction to the core concepts of computing, problems, and problem-solving. The identification of problems and types of problems (routine problems and non-routine problems). Method of solving computing problems (Introduction to Algorithms and heuristics). Solvable and unsolvable problems. Solution techniques of solving problems (abstraction, analogy, brainstorming, trial and error, hypothesis testing, reduction, literal thinking, means-end analysis, method of focal object, morphological analysis, research, root cause analysis, proof, divide and conquer). General Problem-solving process. Solution formulation and design: flowchart, pseudo-code, decision table, decision tree. Implementation, evaluation, and refinement.