It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer. - Albert Einstein

• Problem Solving Techniques
  • Difficult Problem - When the path to the solution is not immediately apparent
  • Make a guess - Evaluate each guess
  • Heuristics - Rules intended to help you explore the solution space and converge to the solution
  • Define the problem - A problem clearly stated is a problem half solved
  • Abstract - The big picture might help you identify causes in other areas
  • Divide & Conquer - Divide the system into components and examine each
• Troubleshooting
  • Repair failed products or processes
• Steps in Troubleshooting
  • Examine the symptoms of malfunction
  • Identify the source
  • Fix it
  • Check if the system is operational
  • Analyze the causes of the malfunction
  • Make the system robust against future failures
• Identifying the source
  • KISS - Check the simple things first
  • Always assume multi point failure ie non singular cause
  • Focus on recent changes
  • Process of Elimination - Elimiante each potential cause until you find the source
• Prepare in Advance
  • Know the expected system behavior
  • Develop troubleshooting procedures in advances
  • Allows for sufficient thinking ahead of time
• Creative Problem Solving
  • Start with the assumption that a perfect logical reasonable solution exists
  • Timeboxing - Commit to work a small amount of time, as little as 5 minutes. Most often you will end up spending much longer. Helps overcome procrastination.
  • Journaling - Putting it on paper avoids circular, repetitive thinking. Helps overcome the limitations of conscious mind’s working memory.
  • Put it on hold - A solution might pop out when you least expect it
  • Persistance - Refer to the quote by Albert Einstein above.
  • Problems exist to help you grow, not to beat you down. They are like dumbbells. Start with the lightest one.