Problem Solving

by Thomas DeFranco, Charles I. Vinsonhaler

Problem Solving provides students with a general approach and strategies to solve problems in real life. The text is easy to read and geared mainly for students who dislike math. Problems throughout the book range from easy to difficult, and require minimal mathematical experience. While possessing knowledge is one important requirement to solving problems, there are many others. Problem Solving focuses on providing strategies to help students become proactive, successful, and confident problem solvers.

120 pages, Paperback

First published April 10, 2004

Reviews

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actually, the book's title is spelled "PProblem SSSolving," to note the abbreviation DeFranco and Vinsonhaler use for their 5 Steps to good problem-solving: (1) be PROACTIVE, (2) SEE the problem (make it visual/visualize it), (3) SIMPLIFY the problem (or solve simpler versions of the problem, then look for a larger pattern to solve the given problem), (4) STIR it up (or dive in and try out solutions to see what happens), (5) PAUSE and reflect (look before you leap; be mindful of what you're trying to do as you try to solve the problem)

The book is brief, but it has a nice collection of puzzles to solve (and illustrate the authors' 5-part process). There's also a good Bibliography for those who wish to read other guides to Problem-Solving (e.g., G. Polya's classic, "How to Solve It").

My biggest complaint is the authors list of "Music to Solve Problems By"--it's all OLD music by dead people! It needs more 80s tunes as well as Jennifer Lopez, Michelle Branch and other beautiful voices! :D Other than that, I really liked this book.