Steps to Successful Problem Solving

Solving problems is one of the most important aspect of science courses including Chemistry. You will, therefore, spend much of your study time either working or studying problems. When working a problem, resist the the temptation to jump to a solution. Following the steps below in a methodical manner will significantly increase your chance of finding the correct answer.

1. Devise a Strategy
A. Read through the problem at a moderate speed to get an overview of the problem.

B. Read through the problem again for the purpose of finding out what the problem is asking for (your unknown). Be able to state this in your own words.

C. If appropriate, draw a diagram and label the givens.

D. Read each phrase of the problem and write down (symbolically or otherwise) all information that is given including units.

E. Devise a tentative plan to solve the problem by using one or more of the following tactics:
  • Form relationships among all facts given. (Write an equation that includes your unknown.)
  • Think of every formula or definition that might be relevant to the problem.
  • Work backwards; ask yourself, "What do I need to know in order to get the answer?"
  • Relate the problem to a similar example from your textbook or notes.
  • Solve a simpler case of the problem using extremely large or small numbers; then follow your example as if it is an example from the text.
  • Break the problem into simpler problems. Work part of the problem and see if it relates to the whole.
  • Guess an answer and then try to check it to see if it's correct. The method you use to check your answer may suggest a possible plan.
  • If you are making no progress, take a break and return to the problem later.
2. Execute your plan
Once you have a plan, carry it out.
  • Be neat and organized. If you run into difficulties, it is a lot easier to find where you may have gone wrong if your work is clearly laid out. Also, if you cannot easily follow your solution neither will your teacher.
  • Do all necessary conversions first before plugging the numbers into your formulas and equations.
  • Include units in your calculations.
  • Keep it simple - None of the problems in high school chemistry take pages to complete the solutions. If it looks like the solution is taking too long, you are probably on the wrong track.
  • If your plan does not work, design a new strategy and try again.

3. Check your solution.
  • Check to see if the answer is in the proper form with the proper units.
  • Insert your answer back into the problem.
  • Make sure your answer is "reasonable."