problem solving skills engineer

• Oct 13, 2019

10 Steps to Problem Solving for Engineers

Updated: Dec 6, 2020

With the official launch of the engineering book 10+1 Steps to Problem Solving: An Engineer's Guide it may be interesting to know that formalization of the concept began in episode 2 of the Engineering IRL Podcast back in July 2018.

As noted in the book remnants of the steps had existed throughout my career and in this episode I actually recorded the episode off the top of my head.

My goal was to help engineers build a practical approach to problem solving.

Have a listen.

Who can advise on the best approach to problem solving other than the professional problem solvers - Yes. I'm talking about being an Engineer.

There are 2 main trains of thought with Engineering work for non-engineers and that's trying to change the world with leading edge tech and innovations, or plain old boring math nerd type things.

Whilst, somewhat the case what this means is most content I read around Tech and Engineering are either super technical and (excruciatingly) detailed. OR really riff raff at the high level reveling at the possibilities of changing the world as we know it. And so what we end up with is a base (engineer only details) and the topping (media innovation coverage) but what about the meat? The contents?

There's a lot of beauty and interesting things there too. And what's the centrepiece? The common ground between all engineers? Problem solving.

The number one thing an Engineer does is problem solving. Now you may say, "hey, that's the same as my profession" - well this would be true for virtually every single profession on earth. This is not saying there isn't problem solving required in other professions. Some problems require very basic problem solving techniques such is used in every day life, but sometimes problems get more complicated, maybe they involve other parties, maybe its a specific quirk of the system in a specific scenario. One thing you learn in engineering is that not all problems are equal. These are

 The stages of problem solving like a pro:

Is the problem identified (no, really, are you actually asking the right question?)

Have you applied related troubleshooting step to above problem?

Have you applied basic troubleshooting steps (i.e. check if its plugged in, turned it on and off again, checked your basics)

Tried step 2 again? (Desperation seeps in, but check your bases)

Asked a colleague or someone else that may have dealt with your problem? (50/50 at this point)

Asked DR. Google (This is still ok)

Deployed RTFM protocol (Read the F***ing Manual - Engineers are notorious for not doing this)

Repeated tests, changing slight things, checking relation to time, or number of people, or location or environment (we are getting DEEP now)

Go to the bottom level, in networking this is packet sniffers to inspect packets, in systems this is taking systems apart and testing in isolation, in software this is checking if 1 equals 1, you are trying to prove basic human facts that everyone knows. If 1 is not equal to 1, you're in deep trouble.At this point you are at rebuild from scratch, re install, start again as your answer (extremely expensive, very rare)

And there you have it! Those are your levels of problem solving. As you go through each step, the more expensive the problem is. -- BUT WAIT. I picked something up along the way and this is where I typically thrive. Somewhere between problem solving step 8 and 10. 

The secret step

My recommendation at this point is to try tests that are seemingly unrelated to anything to do with the problem at all.Pull a random cable, test with a random system off/on, try it at a specific time of the day, try it specifically after restarting or replugging something in. Now, not completely random but within some sort of scope. These test are the ones that when someone is having a problem when you suggest they say "that shouldn't fix the problem, that shouldn't be related" and they are absolutely correct.But here's the thing -- at this stage they have already tried everything that SHOULD fix the problem. Now it's time for the hail mary's, the long shots, the clutching at straws. This method works wonders for many reasons. 1. You really are trying to try "anything" at this point.

2. Most of the time we may think we have problem solving step number 1 covered, but we really don't.

3. Triggering correlations.

This is important.

Triggering correlations

In a later post I will cover correlation vs causation, but for now understand that sometimes all you want to do is throw in new inputs to the system or problem you are solving in order to get clues or re identify problems or give new ways to approach earlier problem solving steps. There you have it. Problem solve like a ninja. Approach that extremely experienced and smart person what their problem and as they describe all the things they've tried, throw in a random thing they haven't tried. And when they say, well that shouldn't fix it, you ask them, well if you've exhausted everything that should  have worked, this is the time to try things that shouldn't. Either they will think of more tests they haven't considered so as to avoid doing your preposterous idea OR they try it and get a new clue to their problem. Heck, at worst they confirm that they do know SOMETHING about the system.

Go out and problem solve ! As always, thanks for reading and good luck with all of your side hustles.

If you prefer to listen to learn we got you covered with the Engineering IRL show!

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What Is Problem Solving? How Software Engineers Approach Complex Challenges

From debugging an existing system to designing an entirely new software application, a day in the life of a software engineer is filled with various challenges and complexities. The one skill that glues these disparate tasks together and makes them manageable? Problem solving . 

Throughout this blog post, we’ll explore why problem-solving skills are so critical for software engineers, delve into the techniques they use to address complex challenges, and discuss how hiring managers can identify these skills during the hiring process. 

What Is Problem Solving?

But what exactly is problem solving in the context of software engineering? How does it work, and why is it so important?

Problem solving, in the simplest terms, is the process of identifying a problem, analyzing it, and finding the most effective solution to overcome it. For software engineers, this process is deeply embedded in their daily workflow. It could be something as simple as figuring out why a piece of code isn’t working as expected, or something as complex as designing the architecture for a new software system. 

In a world where technology is evolving at a blistering pace, the complexity and volume of problems that software engineers face are also growing. As such, the ability to tackle these issues head-on and find innovative solutions is not only a handy skill — it’s a necessity. 

The Importance of Problem-Solving Skills for Software Engineers

Problem-solving isn’t just another ability that software engineers pull out of their toolkits when they encounter a bug or a system failure. It’s a constant, ongoing process that’s intrinsic to every aspect of their work. Let’s break down why this skill is so critical.

Driving Development Forward

Without problem solving, software development would hit a standstill. Every new feature, every optimization, and every bug fix is a problem that needs solving. Whether it’s a performance issue that needs diagnosing or a user interface that needs improving, the capacity to tackle and solve these problems is what keeps the wheels of development turning.

It’s estimated that 60% of software development lifecycle costs are related to maintenance tasks, including debugging and problem solving. This highlights how pivotal this skill is to the everyday functioning and advancement of software systems.

Innovation and Optimization

The importance of problem solving isn’t confined to reactive scenarios; it also plays a major role in proactive, innovative initiatives . Software engineers often need to think outside the box to come up with creative solutions, whether it’s optimizing an algorithm to run faster or designing a new feature to meet customer needs. These are all forms of problem solving.

Consider the development of the modern smartphone. It wasn’t born out of a pre-existing issue but was a solution to a problem people didn’t realize they had — a device that combined communication, entertainment, and productivity into one handheld tool.

Increasing Efficiency and Productivity

Good problem-solving skills can save a lot of time and resources. Effective problem-solvers are adept at dissecting an issue to understand its root cause, thus reducing the time spent on trial and error. This efficiency means projects move faster, releases happen sooner, and businesses stay ahead of their competition.

Improving Software Quality

Problem solving also plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of the end product. By tackling the root causes of bugs and system failures, software engineers can deliver reliable, high-performing software. This is critical because, according to the Consortium for Information and Software Quality, poor quality software in the U.S. in 2022 cost at least $2.41 trillion in operational issues, wasted developer time, and other related problems.

Problem-Solving Techniques in Software Engineering

So how do software engineers go about tackling these complex challenges? Let’s explore some of the key problem-solving techniques, theories, and processes they commonly use.

Decomposition

Breaking down a problem into smaller, manageable parts is one of the first steps in the problem-solving process. It’s like dealing with a complicated puzzle. You don’t try to solve it all at once. Instead, you separate the pieces, group them based on similarities, and then start working on the smaller sets. This method allows software engineers to handle complex issues without being overwhelmed and makes it easier to identify where things might be going wrong.

Abstraction

In the realm of software engineering, abstraction means focusing on the necessary information only and ignoring irrelevant details. It is a way of simplifying complex systems to make them easier to understand and manage. For instance, a software engineer might ignore the details of how a database works to focus on the information it holds and how to retrieve or modify that information.

Algorithmic Thinking

At its core, software engineering is about creating algorithms — step-by-step procedures to solve a problem or accomplish a goal. Algorithmic thinking involves conceiving and expressing these procedures clearly and accurately and viewing every problem through an algorithmic lens. A well-designed algorithm not only solves the problem at hand but also does so efficiently, saving computational resources.

Parallel Thinking

Parallel thinking is a structured process where team members think in the same direction at the same time, allowing for more organized discussion and collaboration. It’s an approach popularized by Edward de Bono with the “ Six Thinking Hats ” technique, where each “hat” represents a different style of thinking.

In the context of software engineering, parallel thinking can be highly effective for problem solving. For instance, when dealing with a complex issue, the team can use the “White Hat” to focus solely on the data and facts about the problem, then the “Black Hat” to consider potential problems with a proposed solution, and so on. This structured approach can lead to more comprehensive analysis and more effective solutions, and it ensures that everyone’s perspectives are considered.

This is the process of identifying and fixing errors in code . Debugging involves carefully reviewing the code, reproducing and analyzing the error, and then making necessary modifications to rectify the problem. It’s a key part of maintaining and improving software quality.

Testing and Validation

Testing is an essential part of problem solving in software engineering. Engineers use a variety of tests to verify that their code works as expected and to uncover any potential issues. These range from unit tests that check individual components of the code to integration tests that ensure the pieces work well together. Validation, on the other hand, ensures that the solution not only works but also fulfills the intended requirements and objectives.

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Evaluating Problem-Solving Skills

We’ve examined the importance of problem-solving in the work of a software engineer and explored various techniques software engineers employ to approach complex challenges. Now, let’s delve into how hiring teams can identify and evaluate problem-solving skills during the hiring process.

Recognizing Problem-Solving Skills in Candidates

How can you tell if a candidate is a good problem solver? Look for these indicators:

• Previous Experience: A history of dealing with complex, challenging projects is often a good sign. Ask the candidate to discuss a difficult problem they faced in a previous role and how they solved it.
• Problem-Solving Questions: During interviews, pose hypothetical scenarios or present real problems your company has faced. Ask candidates to explain how they would tackle these issues. You’re not just looking for a correct solution but the thought process that led them there.
• Technical Tests: Coding challenges and other technical tests can provide insight into a candidate’s problem-solving abilities. Consider leveraging a platform for assessing these skills in a realistic, job-related context.

Assessing Problem-Solving Skills

Once you’ve identified potential problem solvers, here are a few ways you can assess their skills:

• Solution Effectiveness: Did the candidate solve the problem? How efficient and effective is their solution?
• Approach and Process: Go beyond whether or not they solved the problem and examine how they arrived at their solution. Did they break the problem down into manageable parts? Did they consider different perspectives and possibilities?
• Communication: A good problem solver can explain their thought process clearly. Can the candidate effectively communicate how they arrived at their solution and why they chose it?
• Adaptability: Problem-solving often involves a degree of trial and error. How does the candidate handle roadblocks? Do they adapt their approach based on new information or feedback?

Hiring managers play a crucial role in identifying and fostering problem-solving skills within their teams. By focusing on these abilities during the hiring process, companies can build teams that are more capable, innovative, and resilient.

Key Takeaways

As you can see, problem solving plays a pivotal role in software engineering. Far from being an occasional requirement, it is the lifeblood that drives development forward, catalyzes innovation, and delivers of quality software. 

By leveraging problem-solving techniques, software engineers employ a powerful suite of strategies to overcome complex challenges. But mastering these techniques isn’t simple feat. It requires a learning mindset, regular practice, collaboration, reflective thinking, resilience, and a commitment to staying updated with industry trends. 

For hiring managers and team leads, recognizing these skills and fostering a culture that values and nurtures problem solving is key. It’s this emphasis on problem solving that can differentiate an average team from a high-performing one and an ordinary product from an industry-leading one.

At the end of the day, software engineering is fundamentally about solving problems — problems that matter to businesses, to users, and to the wider society. And it’s the proficient problem solvers who stand at the forefront of this dynamic field, turning challenges into opportunities, and ideas into reality.

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An Inquiry-Based Introduction to Engineering pp 71–78 Cite as

Engineering Problem-Solving

• Michelle Blum 2  
• First Online: 21 September 2022

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You are becoming an engineer to become a problem solver. That is why employers will hire you. Since problem-solving is an essential portion of the engineering profession, it is necessary to learn approaches that will lead to an acceptable resolution. In real-life, the problems engineers solve can vary from simple single solution problems to complex opened ended ones. Whether simple or complex, problem-solving involves knowledge, experience, and creativity. In college, you will learn prescribed processes you can follow to improve your problem-solving abilities. Also, you will be required to solve an immense amount of practice and homework problems to give you experience in problem-solving. This chapter introduces problem analysis, organization, and presentation in the context of the problems you will solve throughout your undergraduate education.

• Research Problem
• Knowledge Problem
• Troubleshooting Problem
• Mathematics Problem
• Resource Problem
• Societal Problem
• Personal Problem
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• Problem-Solving Technique
• Problem-Solving Communication

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Mark Thomas Holtzapple, W. Dan Reece (2000), Foundations of Engineering, McGraw-Hill, New York, New York, ISBN:978-0-07-029706-7.

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Aide, A.R., Jenison R.D., Mickelson, S.K., Northup, L.L., Engineering Fundamentals and Problem Solving, McGraw-Hill, New York, NY, ISBN: 978-0-07-338591-4.

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End of Chapter Problems

1.1 ibl questions.

IBL1: Using standard problem-solving technique, answer the following questions

If you run in a straight line at a velocity of 10 mph in a direction of 35 degree North of East, draw the vector representation of your path (hint: use a compass legend to help create your coordinate system)

If you run in a straight line at a velocity of 10 mph in a direction of 35 degree North of East, explain how to calculate the velocity you ran in the north direction.

If you run in a straight line at a velocity of 10 mph in a direction of 35 degree North of East, explain how to calculate the velocity you ran in the east direction.

If you run in a straight line at a velocity of 10 mph in a direction of 35 degree North of East, explain how to calculate how far you ran in the north direction.

If you run in a straight line at a velocity of 10 mph in a direction of 35 degree North of East, explain how to calculate how far you ran in the east direction.

If you run in a straight line at a velocity of 10 mph in a direction of 35 degree North of East, how far north have you traveled in 5 min?

If you run in a straight line at a velocity of 10 mph in a direction of 35 degree North of East, how far east have you traveled in 5 min?

What type of problem did you solve?

IBL2: For the following scenarios, explain what type of problem it is that needs to be solved.

Scientists hypothesize that PFAS chemicals in lawn care products are leading to an increase in toxic algae blooms in lakes during summer weather.

An engineer notices that a manufacturing machine motor hums every time the fluorescent floor lights are turned on.

The U.N. warns that food production must be increased by 60% by 2050 to keep up with population growth demand.

Engineers are working to identify and create viable alternative energy sources to combat climate change.

1.2 Practice Problems

Make sure all problems are written up using appropriate problem-solving technique and presentation.

The principle of conservation of energy states that the sum of the kinetic energy and potential energy of the initial and final states of an object is the same. If an engineering student was riding in a 200 kg roller coaster car that started from rest at 10 m above the ground, what is the velocity of the car when it drops to 2.5 m above the ground?

Archimedes’ principle states that the total mass of a floating object equals the mass of the fluid displaced by the object. A 45 cm cylindrical buoy is floating vertically in the water. If the water density is 1.00 g/cm 3 and the buoy plastic has a density of 0.92 g/cm 3 determine the length of the buoy that is not submerged underwater.

A student throws their textbook off a bridge that is 30 ft high. How long would it take before the book hits the ground?

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Engineering Management Institute

TECC 244: Practical Problem-Solving Skills for Engineers

April 13, 2021 By EMI

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In this episode, I talk to Andrew Sario, an intelligent transport systems engineer and OT cyber specialist, creator of Engineering IRL, and engineering book author, about problem-solving skills for engineers. Andrew provides some great tips that will help you to master these skills and become the best engineer you could be. Be sure to listen to the end of this episode for a special offer from guest Andrew Sario.

Engineering Quotes:

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Practical Problem-Solving Skills for Engineers:

• When working on many different projects, work on each one cyclically. It will make it easier to transition from one to the other and know what you need to do next. Breaking up each project into smaller chunks helps you not feel overwhelmed by the entire project.
• The book, “10+1 Steps to Problem Solving: An Engineer’s Guide,” is born from Andrew’s practical experiences. If you encounter similar problems repetitively, you begin to learn how to solve them quicker and easier. Many problems are solved by taking the same steps as used with other problems. Use this book in conjunction with the problem-solving techniques that you already have. It is a tool to help you think about the problem you have and solve it.
• Engineering problem-solving consists of breaking down big problems into smaller, solvable, individual parts and then putting them back together to solve the bigger problem. Many engineering problems are bigger than what one person can solve. Using a team to solve this problem is beneficial. Engineers capture the best practices over time to solve problems more safely and efficiently than before.
• If a problem has a known solution, then use it. Sometimes you need to use tools that give you a different perspective of the problem to solve the problem.
• Whatever tasks are given to you, no matter how small or trivial, do them well.
• Look for solutions to the problems that are standing in the way of your team moving forward. It will give people the mentality to see you as a problem-solver. When doing this, remember to keep step 1 in context.
• To get better at solving problems, you need to practice solving problems. Be happy if you fail in solving some of the problems you face. It adds to your practicing, and you learn what not to do next time.

The 10+1 Steps to Problem-Solving for Engineers Are:

• Are you asking the correct question? – Make sure you are asking the correct question from the beginning of your problem-solving techniques.
• The obvious. – Try the known solutions. If they do not work the first time, try them again, and they might work.
• Eyes. – Ensure you have all the correct tools in place to give you clues about the problem.
• Check yourself. – Check yourself before you wreck yourself. Make sure that all the basics are in place before getting too technical about solving the problem.
• Google it. – You do not have to know everything already, so Google for solutions to your problem. If you have a specific problem, there are online forums that you can consult about it.
• The R.T.F.M. protocol. – Read the manual. You could be surprised by the information you find in it.
• Strip . – Strip down the complexities of the problem and look for something basic to solve first. Prove you know something about the problem.
• What about the environment? – Look for things outside of your problem that could be influencing or impacting it.
• Phone a friend. – Ask someone who might know of a solution.
• Pray – Talk about your problem aloud to yourself. Find an inanimate object and tell it the problem you have and what is needed to solve it. It can get your subconscious working and help you get clarity on what is needed to solve it.
• You can find this step in the book – “ 10+1 Steps to Problem Solving: An Engineer’s Guide .”

More in This Episode…

In the Take Action Today segment of the show, Andrew talks about one tip for engineers to be better at problem-solving.

About Andrew Sario

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” ~ Albert Einstein

Books Mentioned in This Episode:

10+1 Steps to Problem Solving: An Engineer’s Guide

Resources and Links Mentioned in This Session Include:

Engineering in Real Life Cloudmate Networks Cisco Meraki Technology Connect with Andrew Sario on LinkedIn Send Andrew Sario an email

We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on practical problem-solving skills for engineers.

Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.

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Problem-Solving Skills for Software Developers: Why & How to Improve

Problem-solving skills go hand-in-hand with software development. Learn some great problem-solving techniques and tips for improvement here!

Software developer jobs today require that you possess excellent problem-solving skills , and for good reason. Unfortunately, there seems to be a sort of talent gap when it comes to this one skill required of all software developers.

Troubleshooting and problem resolution are both informally and formally taught, but you mostly find that software developers have to learn problem-solving skills on their own. This is true for self-taught developers , obviously, but also even for those with software engineering degrees or who’ve graduated from coding boot camps.

This is why it’s necessary to acquaint yourself with the problem-solving process, whether you are a newbie or an experienced developer. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about problem-solving so you can 10x your software development career.

What are Problem-Solving Skills?

As a developer, what do we mean by problem-solving? Let’s attempt a simple definition.

In software development, problem-solving is the process of using theories and research to find solutions to a problem domain, while testing different ideas and applying best practices to achieve a desired result. Problem-solving also has to do with utilizing creativity and logical thought processes to identify problems and resolve them with software.

Becoming a great software developer hinges more on learning algorithms than programming languages or frameworks . And algorithms are simply step-by-step instructions to solve a given problem.

Read More : How to Build a Software Engineer Portfolio (With Examples & Tips)

Why are impeccable problem-solving skills crucial?

Making good use of a computer language can be likened to being a skilled writer. An effective writer must know how to construct sentences and use grammar appropriately. There’s more to writing than just knowing all the words in the dictionary, and that’s how it works for developers, too.

You have different tasks to work on as a software developer, including perhaps designing, coding, and troubleshooting. Much of your time will be spent on identifying problems, spotting and correcting bugs, and making sense of codebases from before you started working there. Being ingenious at problem-solving is essential in creating incredible solutions to issues that arise throughout software development.

To demonstrate ingenuity, let’s consider Google’s autocomplete tool as an example.

The autocomplete tool is built to suggest related terms in the search bar as you type. The idea behind the tool is to reduce more than 200 years of time spent typing daily and to help users save time by up to 25% while typing.

Here’s what had to be done:

• To activate real-time completion of suggestions, the UI experience and JavaScript had to be implemented.
• Next, since users could type just about anything, the autocomplete suggestions had to be compiled into a sensible list dependent on user input.
• Then, Google had to create a back-end sustainability system for this function. Doing this meant massively increasing its infrastructure to accommodate all forms of data query and HTTP requests.
• Finally, the user interface had to be refined by software engineers in order to make sure that every user enjoyed a worthwhile experience. So they employed Google Trends to power the auto-completion tool while using algorithms to take out explicit or offensive predictions in line with Google’s auto-completion policy.

This is just one of Google’s innumerable problem-solving examples, but it’s clear to see that solving problems involves more than just telling a computer to do stuff. It’s about your ability to come up with parameters rightly tailored to target users so they can meet their goals.

So why must developers focus on problem-solving at work?

Software developers work with a wide range of people and departments, and it’s common to discover that some clients and teams find it difficult to define what they want. As a problem solver, it’s up to you to help them identify their needs and communicate their thoughts in an effective way.

Of course, you’ll need time and practice to develop your problem resolution ability. That’s because it’s less about solving problems faster but more about coming up with the best solution . And then you’ll need to deploy that solution.

Read More : Common Interview Questions for Software Developer Jobs (Non-Technical)

Types of problem-solving skills

Now let’s talk about four types of problem-solving skills for developers:

1.  Parallel thinking

As a software developer, parallel thinking is a crucial skill necessary to perform optimally. This makes it possible for you to carry out two tasks that complement each other at the same time (like an optimized form of multitasking skills). Being able to reorder tasks to boost parallel execution can help to improve your output and save valuable time .

2. Dissecting broad and/or complex goals

When it comes to building software, you will need to effectively outline the steps and tasks necessary to achieve your goal. Developers must learn to break large and complex tasks into smaller assignments because this is an important skill that will help you create results with precision.

3. Reimplementing existing solutions

You don’t always need to reinvent the wheel. Part of being an effective software developer comes with being able to use already existing tools before even thinking of creating new solutions. Developing problem-solving skills is very much connected to finding solutions that already exist and reusing them.

4. Abstraction

Keep in mind that goals tend to evolve. So if your client comes up with new ideas, that will mean changing your design goals and reordering your tasks. A good programmer must learn to create solutions in such a way that does not require a complete redesign from scratch.

You also have to become adept at abstracting problems so that your solutions can get them resolved so long as they aren’t entirely different from the original issue. You don’t necessarily have to abstract every aspect to avoid more complications being created. This calls for balance by abstracting only where necessary without making narrow decisions.

Read More : Learn 8 Great Benefits of Working From Home

4 Important Tips & Strategies for Improving Problem-Solving Skills

To keep your problem-solving skills and techniques from growing weaker over time, you need to exercise them non-stop. As they say: practice makes perfect!

To train the problem-solving side of your brain, these four tips and strategies can help you improve your abilities:

1. Make problem-solving a part of your life

Never restrict yourself to working on problems only during work hours. Don’t make it a chore, but, instead, do things that make problem-solving look fun. The game of chess, solving puzzles, and playing video games that compel you to think critically will help strengthen your problem-solving skills, and you can tell your significant other you are advancing your career! 🙂

When you come to a complex problem in your life, whether it’s budgeting for a home or renovating the downstairs bathroom, approach it both creatively and critically. Ask yourself: What would a great software engineer do in this situation?

2. Use different platforms to solve problems

Proffer solutions to a set of problems without restricting yourself to one platform. Using different platforms and tools regularly helps make sure you become flexible as a problem-solver. And it makes sense, because there really is no universal solution for the different problems that pop up in your line of work. Trying out different platforms to solve different problems helps you to keep an open mind and enables you to test out different techniques when looking to find solutions.

Read More : 12 Common Mistakes Keeping You From Landing Your First Developer Job

3. Be open to assistance from external sources

Part of being a good software developer comes with being able to ask for help and also accept all forms of feedback. You might need a different opinion or a new set of eyes to help find the most fitting solution to some problems. It makes sense to view building problem-solving skills as more of a team effort rather than a personal journey.

Have an open mind and heart to function not only as an individual but also as a collective. It’s a utopian working environment where everyone supports each other to become better versions of themselves. So if you come across an issue that keeps you stuck, get help! You may find someone who has a more refined framework or method you never knew existed or would have thought of using. You could then learn from them and add their solution to your toolkit.

Get feedback often, as well. This could be the catalyst to making improvements to your processes and evolving them into something truly refined.

4. Tackle new problems using lessons from past solutions

As you practice and finesse your ability to identify problems and find solutions, you’ll begin to notice patterns. It’s more like developing your toolbox armed with a wide range of solutions that have proved useful in the past. So when problems emerge, you will notice how easy it is to take some of those old solutions and apply them to the new problem.

The more you attempt to apply creativity in solving problems, the more you grow your skills. In the long run, that will help you find the right solutions faster and apply them to a wide range of problems more naturally. It’s all about improving the effectiveness and efficiency with which you tackle new problems while applying only the best possible solutions.

Read More : How to Stay Motivated at Work

3 Complementary Skills to Improve to Become a Good Problem Solver

Developing software is mostly about problem-solving at the very core before even writing your first lines of code. You have to identify problems that can be solved using software. Then you have to go on to understand how people try to solve such problems in real life.

It’s up to you to come up with a framework that allows you to take both the problem and the solution and convert them into computer code. And you have to do this in such a way that makes the software even more efficient and effective than a human.

While going through this process, developers also have to handle other problems such as deadline deliveries, checking for bugs and fixing them, and collaborate across teams. So, supporting skills must not be overlooked.

Software developers must build interpersonal skills and collaboration skills . Being able to empathize, accept feedback, handle criticism, listen intently, and show respect for others are all important characteristics and abilities necessary for teamwork, and, thus, necessary for solving problems on the job.

Read More : 5 Ways to Stand Out & Get Noticed in Your Current Development Job

Communication

No one is an island, and that’s true when you consider how software engineers work. Building software requires keeping up with clients and teammates and other departments. You can’t afford to be a Lone Ranger, at least not 100% of the time, and that’s why employers always look for good communication skills.

Being a good software developer also involves how well you can break down very complex concepts to laypeople. You want to be the kind of person who fixes a problem and is able to explain how you were able to do it. It’s all about your ability to be clear and articulate about every aspect of your work. And you want to be able to communicate not just verbally but also in written form.

To build your communication skills as a developer, you can learn from more experienced people and observe how they interact with their clients. And, don’t forget, with more and more companies becoming global enterprises and going remote, it’s important to brush up on your intercultural communication skills , as well.

Logical thinking

The difference between elite software developers and average ones is often said to be logical thinking. The ability to process thoughts logically is important, because you’ll often spend most of your time finding and fixing bugs rather than writing code.

Problems can show up from just about anywhere, even from what seems to be the most insignificant errors. So, your ability to detect software issues and solve these problems using deductive thought processes is a vital ingredient to your success as a software developer.

Read More : Questions to Ask at Interviews for Software Engineering Jobs

Problem-Solving Stages & Practices

There are countless problem-solving processes and various schools of thought regarding the best way to approach problems whenever they arise. To solve that problem, we’ve pooled some of these frameworks together to come up with a comprehensive approach to problem-solving.

Step 1 – Define the problem

You have to first start with problem identification. Knowing what you are dealing with is important, because you don’t want to risk spending valuable time applying wrong solutions. Avoid making automatic assumptions. Even when the symptoms look familiar, you want to investigate properly because such signs could be pointing to something else entirely.

Problems in software development come in different sizes and scopes. You could be having trouble getting some aspects of the product to respond in the desired way. Or maybe you’re having issues trying to decipher a codebase section where you can no longer communicate with the original developers. Sometimes, the problem could come in the form of an unfamiliar error message and you’re at loss.

Once you’re able to define the problem, make sure to document it.

Step 2 – Analyze the problem

Now it’s time to carry out problem analysis . Before deciding what problem resolution methods to adopt, it’s necessary to find out all there is to the issue, which builds on our first step. This will make it easier to come up with ideas and solutions later on.

Problem analysis isn’t always a walk in the park. There are times when the problem involves a very small mistake such as failing to import a package correctly or a small syntax error. Other times, however, it could be such a huge error, like the entire program acting differently than what you want. There might be no alarms or blinking red lights to tell you what the exact problem is.

If you encounter such situations, you can find answers by articulating the problem. Document what you intend to do, what you’ve done, the original intention for the program, and where you currently are. Communication comes in handy here, of course, not just in your documentation, but also in how you relay it to your teammates.

Read More : Got a Busy Developer Schedule? Here’s How to Keep Learning & Make Time

Step 3 – Brainstorm

This step has to do with generating ideas, and you can benefit from discussing the problem with a team and then coming up with ways to get it fixed. Keep in mind that problem-solving at work involves interacting with a diverse group of people where the individuals have unique skill sets and experiences.

Many developers tend to neglect the previous steps and rush straight into brainstorming. That’s definitely not a good way to go about problem-solving. The idea is not to skip the important steps in the process.

Once you get to the point where ideas need to be generated, do not discard any, because this step relies on a wide range of ideas. Only after gathering as many perspectives as possible should you then begin reviewing and narrowing down to the best possible solution.

Step 4 – Make a decision

At this point, all viable solutions have to be analyzed before selecting the most appropriate one to implement. Picking the best possible solution depends on its ability to meet certain criteria. It must be suitable, feasible, and then acceptable.

What it means is that the solution must be able to get the problem solved. It should also be easy to see how such a solution fits into the equation. And then every member of the team involved in the brainstorming process has to unanimously accept the solution.

Read More : How to Network as a Software Engineer

Step 5 – Implement

After identifying and choosing the solution, the next logical step is to plan out the implementation process and then execute it. Coming up with a detailed plan is crucial if the solution is to be a success.

Now this plan must detail all the necessary steps required to implement the solution. It will also explain the length of time and stages of work required. Once all of that is put in place, you can then move forward with the execution. The idea is not just to execute a solution but to do it the right way.

Implementation using automated tests can help to keep unexpected issues from arising in the future. Some other problem-solving practices or approaches begin the process with this step. So, whenever any changes are made to the project, tests asserting that the changes will perform as required will be written first before the changes are then made.

Step 6 – Evaluate

No problem-solving process can be deemed comprehensive enough if there is no room for evaluation. Whatever the solution may be, it has to undergo strict evaluation in order to see how it performs. That will also help determine whether the problem still exists and the extent to which such an issue keeps recurring.

In the event that the problem persists despite the implementation of a detailed plan, then the developer and team may even have to restart the problem-solving process. However discouraging that may sound, at least you’ll have caught it early enough. And, this also proves the process worked.

Read More : How to Become a Software Engineer: Education, Steps & Tips for Success

Final Thoughts

Developing problem-solving skills is quite necessary for software developers. To be a successful problem solver, you will need lots of years down the line to practice what you study.

Always remember that you are a problem solver first before anything else. There is more to building software than just understanding the tech behind it and writing lines of code. It’s all about improving your ability to identify problems and find solutions, and that will need lots of experience on your part.

Never shy away from problems, but learn to think critically and logically in any situation. By applying the six-step strategy for problem-solving at work discussed in this piece, you will be more equipped to come up with the most effective and efficient solutions.

We hope you enjoyed reading our guide on how to solve a problem as a software developer and ways to improve skills as a problem solver! If you have any questions, feedback, or other great problem-solving techniques or methods, let us know in the comments below 🙂

The Arc team publishes insightful articles and thought leadership pieces related to software engineering careers and remote work. From helping entry-level developers land their first junior role to assisting remote workers struggling with working from home to guiding mid-level programmers as they seek a leadership position, Arc covers it all and more!

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Further reading

Ready to Take On a Senior Role or Leadership Position as a Developer?

Here Are 43 of the Best Online Developer Communities to Join in 2024

Here’s When You Can TRULY Call Yourself a “Senior” Software Developer

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Software Engineer Degree: Pros, Cons & Alternatives

Key Analytical Skills for Developers (& How to Continually Improve Them)

Technical Support Engineer Skills

Learn about the skills that will be most essential for Technical Support Engineers in 2024.

Getting Started as a Technical Support Engineer

• What is a Technical Support Engineer
• How To Become
• Certifications
• Tools & Software
• LinkedIn Guide
• Interview Questions
• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Goals
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples

What Skills Does a Technical Support Engineer Need?

Types of skills for technical support engineers, technical proficiency and problem-solving, customer service and communication, adaptability and continuous learning, collaboration and teamwork, analytical skills and attention to detail, top hard skills for technical support engineers.

Equipping Technical Support Engineers with robust problem-solving skills across networks, systems, and security to optimize performance and user support.

• Network Troubleshooting and Configuration
• System Administration for Windows, Linux, or macOS
• Database Management and SQL
• Cloud Services Administration (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
• Cybersecurity Best Practices and Protocols
• Scripting and Automation (Python, Bash, PowerShell)
• Hardware Diagnostics and Repair
• Software Deployment and Patch Management
• Virtualization Technologies (VMware, Hyper-V)
• Technical Documentation and Knowledge Base Management

Top Soft Skills for Technical Support Engineers

Empowering support through empathy, communication, and teamwork, while balancing critical thinking and adaptability in dynamic service environments.

• Empathy and Customer Service Orientation
• Effective Communication and Active Listening
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
• Patience and Stress Management

Adaptability and Flexibility

• Teamwork and Collaboration

Time Management and Prioritization

• Continuous Learning and Knowledge Sharing
• Cultural Awareness and Global Mindset
• Conflict Resolution and Negotiation

Showcase the Right Skills in Your Resume

Most Important Technical Support Engineer Skills in 2024

Advanced technical proficiency, problem-solving and analytical thinking, customer service excellence, effective communication skills, continuous learning and professional development, technical support engineer skills by experience level, important skills for entry-level technical support engineers, important skills for mid-level technical support engineers, important skills for senior technical support engineers, most underrated skills for technical support engineers, 1. active listening, 2. clear communication, 3. patience.

Tailor Your Skills for Every Job Application

How to demonstrate your skills as a technical support engineer in 2024, how you can upskill as a technical support engineer.

• Master Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques: Develop a deep understanding of complex systems and networks by learning advanced troubleshooting methods that can reduce downtime and improve customer satisfaction.
• Acquire Certifications in Emerging Technologies: Obtain certifications in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, or AI to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to staying ahead in the tech industry.
• Participate in Technical Webinars and Virtual Trainings: Engage with online learning opportunities to stay informed about the latest tools, software updates, and best practices in technical support.
• Expand Your Coding Knowledge: Learn or improve your proficiency in scripting languages such as Python or PowerShell to automate routine tasks and enhance your problem-solving skills.
• Embrace Remote Support Technologies: Become proficient with remote diagnostic and support tools to effectively assist users in an increasingly remote work environment.
• Enhance Communication Skills: Invest in communication training to articulate technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders and improve overall customer experience.
• Build a Strong Professional Network: Connect with other Technical Support Engineers and industry professionals through social media, forums, and local meetups to exchange knowledge and discover new opportunities.
• Practice Continuous Learning: Dedicate time each week to read industry publications, follow tech blogs, and experiment with new technologies to keep your skills sharp and relevant.
• Focus on Service Management Frameworks: Gain expertise in ITIL or other service management frameworks to understand and improve the IT services lifecycle within your organization.

Skill FAQs for Technical Support Engineers

What are the emerging skills for technical support engineers today, how can technical support engineers effectivley develop their soft skills, how important is technical expertise for technical support engineers.

Technical Support Engineer Education

More Skills for Related Roles

Solving tech issues, ensuring smooth operations, and enhancing user experience

Designing and optimizing secure networks, ensuring seamless data flow and connectivity

Optimizing business processes and systems, bridging the gap between technology and users

Navigating tech issues, ensuring smooth operations in a digital-driven workspace

Ensuring seamless tech operations by troubleshooting and resolving desktop issues swiftly

Ensuring seamless network operations, optimizing systems for peak performance

Start Your Technical Support Engineer Career with Teal

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Problem Solving Skills The Essence of an Engineer

27 May 2021

A Problem can be defined as an apparent gap between the existing state and the desired state of affairs, or simply a deviation from a norm, standard, or status quo. During Professional life, we face a lot of problems related to Products and services. This is where the problem-solving skill becomes essential. Through a detailed comprehensive approach, one can effectively adopt vital problem-solving skills.

Problem Solving: Challenges

An example of problem-solving in products and services may be telecommunication and banking services. In both cases Manufacture/Service Provider always find it challenging to:

• Enhance the dimensions of quality of their products/services
• Reduce the cost of the products/services
• Enhance customer satisfaction by reducing the manufacturing lead time.

To excel in the business as a Manufacturer or a Service provider an engineer must have a thorough understanding and application of Problem-solving skills.

Problem Solving Categories

The discussion on Problem solving skills is so significant that as per Albert Einstein If I had an hour to solve a problem, I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and 5 minutes thinking about solutions Two General Categories of Problem Solving include

• Analytical Problem Solving
• Creative Problem Solving

Problem Solving Steps and Methods

The comprehensive steps and methods that one should adopt while solving any problem include:

• Defining the Problem
• Generating Alternatives
• Choosing the best alternative
• Applying the best alternative
• Accepting Feedback

Also Read :- 5 Life Lessons You Should Learn Before Graduating

Teaching Problem Solving Skills to students

A teacher plays a very important role in building problem solving skills among the students. Some points that can be kept in mind while instilling problem solving techniques among the students are:

• Provide hints so that students can find a solution to a problem
• Give a valid framework for them to work upon
• Give variety of problems for them to work upon
• Let them practice regularly
• Take it step-by-step, go from an easy to moderate, and then a difficult problem to solve
• Ask them to chart out their strategy while solving a problem
• Ask them to come up with innovative problem solving techniques
• Provide a constructive feedback

Related :- 6 Traits That Will Make You A Good Engineer

Problem Solving Examples for Students

Some of the leading examples for the students to apply their problem solving skills and techniques are: highlighting a specific skill set in the resume, explaining a certain topic in the form of a classroom presentation, managing the timetable to accommodate the studies and extracurricular alike. These are some of the many examples where a student would need to imply the problem solving skills and methods to derive an apt solution.

The various tools and techniques for Problem-solving are available for every step of problem-solving. Some of the problem-solving tools include cause and effects diagram, Pareto analysis, hypothesis testing, statistical process control, why-why analysis, force-field analysis, decision science, etc. There is a long list of problem-solving tools and techniques. A professional must understand problem-solving skills including tools and techniques to grow their business exponentially. It is interesting to note that Problem-solving skills are equally applicable to real-life problems and situations.

Written By:- Dr. Virender Narula, Professor-Mechanical Engineering, FET-MRIIRS

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Engineering Problem-Solving Skills: Tips to Improve Fast

Thousands of engineers can attest that these methods work in helping you improve your problem solving skills in engineering.

Tips to improve your engineering problem-solving skills fast

It doesn’t matter which field of engineering you belong to; once you step into engineering school, you are bombarded with problems that test your problem-solving skills.

You are bound to answer challenging questions to the point that you are already on the verge of losing your sanity.

This happens as early as the general engineering subjects in your freshmen year, which are mostly mathematics. So how do you cope?

If you are a master solver in high school, that wouldn’t be so much of a problem.

You’ve got mathematics up your sleeves which makes the job of problem-solving much easier when you are in engineering.

But if you consider yourself weak in math – but taking an engineering course anyway – you should be willing to put all the work you need to do.

There is nothing that cannot be done unless you are going to set your mind to it.

Just follow these tips.

Thousands of engineers can attest that these methods work in helping you improve your problem-solving skills in engineering:

Practice, practice, practice

The more problems you solve before the exam, the more you understand the underlying principles.

It is not enough for you to resolve the problems your professor gave you.

You have to keep more problems and solve them so you can absorb what the topic is all about.

The key is repetition and consistency.

Not only that, but this also exposes you to different problems that should no longer shock you in the actual exam.

If you prepare for the most difficult problems, you are most likely to find the exam easy.

Do not memorize the process

It’s better that you gain an understanding of the logic behind the process rather than memorizing each step.

Engineers should rather analyze than memorize .

A slight change in the problem of the actual exam will leave you awestruck if it isn’t similar to the one you had in mind.

That’s why I don’t really recommend memorizing the steps given by your professor; instead, ask how and why the process came to be.

That way, you can also apply the concepts to other related problems.

Draw as you imagine the problem

If it applies, make a diagram as you visualize what can be done with the given values.

This is more of a time-saving tip because, as you know, time is essential in the exam.

If the problem is long, you will waste time re-reading the problem just to draw your diagrams.

It’s better if you illustrate right away as you read.

Make your own mnemonics

Formulas are difficult to remember as is.

Try to be creative with them and make mnemonics for better retention.

Especially in exact formulas wherein you can’t derive, assign some words that can make you easily remember them.

Be playful as possible. You can also make the formulas into songs! The sky is the limit when it comes to mnemonics.

Use your resources

Get help from your existing resources to enhance your engineering problem-solving skills.

Gather all the study materials you can have on the topics you need to study.

Do this as early as possible so you can go over all of them.

This is related to the first tip, which is practice, practice, practice.

How could you do that if you don’t have the materials or resources at hand?

Take note that resources are not limited to books but to tutorials as well.

You can ask your classmates or teachers when you seem lost in certain topics.

Solve neatly to enhance your engineering problem-solving skills

Keep your solutions and figures as neat as possible.

Organize them line by line to enhance your engineering problem-solving skills

This is perhaps the most underrated tip on this list.

Not only do messy solution sheets confuse the one who will check them (if it isn’t Scantron), but you will also have a hard time understanding your solution when you review them before you submit it.

Imagine going over that one last problem that you skipped but hastily solved because you realized it involves a long solution.

Only to be turned back to in the last 5 minutes of the exam period. Your mind is all over the place and so is your solution. Wasted points.

Help as much as you can

Discuss with someone to enhance your engineering problem-solving skills.

One of the most effective ways to understand the topics is to teach them to others in the simplest way possible.

Remember what the great Albert Einstein said, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”

Helping others understand the topics also helps you understand them even more.

It’s one of the best ways for retention, while you also discover that others have questions you never thought to ask.

Move on when you cannot answer anymore

You don’t know how to answer a problem? Just go over it later.

The next questions might give you an idea.

Don’t waste your time over one difficult problem at the start when you have the easiest ones in later parts.

Sometimes the professor/examiner plays this trick to test the exam time management of the takers.

Got anything to add to these tips?

Share them below!

Posted by Engr. Amber Rose Watson

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FREE K-12 standards-aligned STEM

curriculum for educators everywhere!

Find more at TeachEngineering.org .

• TeachEngineering
• Problem Solving

Lesson Problem Solving

Grade Level: 8 (6-8)

(two 40-minute class periods)

Lesson Dependency: The Energy Problem

Subject Areas: Physical Science, Science and Technology

• Print lesson and its associated curriculum

Curriculum in this Unit Units serve as guides to a particular content or subject area. Nested under units are lessons (in purple) and hands-on activities (in blue). Note that not all lessons and activities will exist under a unit, and instead may exist as "standalone" curriculum.

• Energy Forms and States Demonstrations
• Energy Conversions
• Watt Meters to Measure Energy Consumption
• Household Energy Audit
• Light vs. Heat Bulbs
• Efficiency of an Electromechanical System
• Efficiency of a Water Heating System
• Solving Energy Problems
• Energy Projects

TE Newsletter

Engineering connection, learning objectives, worksheets and attachments, more curriculum like this, introduction/motivation, associated activities, user comments & tips.

Scientists, engineers and ordinary people use problem solving each day to work out solutions to various problems. Using a systematic and iterative procedure to solve a problem is efficient and provides a logical flow of knowledge and progress.

• Students demonstrate an understanding of the Technological Method of Problem Solving.
• Students are able to apply the Technological Method of Problem Solving to a real-life problem.

Educational Standards Each TeachEngineering lesson or activity is correlated to one or more K-12 science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) educational standards. All 100,000+ K-12 STEM standards covered in TeachEngineering are collected, maintained and packaged by the Achievement Standards Network (ASN) , a project of D2L (www.achievementstandards.org). In the ASN, standards are hierarchically structured: first by source; e.g. , by state; within source by type; e.g. , science or mathematics; within type by subtype, then by grade, etc .

Ngss: next generation science standards - science.

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Do you agree with this alignment? Thanks for your feedback!

International Technology and Engineering Educators Association - Technology

State standards, national science education standards - science.

Scientists, engineers, and ordinary people use problem solving each day to work out solutions to various problems. Using a systematic and iterative procedure to solve a problem is efficient and provides a logical flow of knowledge and progress.

In this unit, we use what is called "The Technological Method of Problem Solving." This is a seven-step procedure that is highly iterative—you may go back and forth among the listed steps, and may not always follow them in order. Remember that in most engineering projects, more than one good answer exists. The goal is to get to the best solution for a given problem. Following the lesson conduct the associated activities Egg Drop and Solving Energy Problems for students to employ problem solving methods and techniques. 

Lesson Background and Concepts for Teachers

The overall concept that is important in this lesson is: Using a standard method or procedure to solve problems makes the process easier and more effective.

The specific process of problem solving used in this unit was adapted from an eighth-grade technology textbook written for New York State standard technology curriculum. The process is shown in Figure 1, with details included below. The spiral shape shows that this is an iterative, not linear, process. The process can skip ahead (for example, build a model early in the process to test a proof of concept) and go backwards (learn more about the problem or potential solutions if early ideas do not work well).

This process provides a reference that can be reiterated throughout the unit as students learn new material or ideas that are relevant to the completion of their unit projects.

Brainstorming about what we know about a problem or project and what we need to find out to move forward in a project is often a good starting point when faced with a new problem. This type of questioning provides a basis and relevance that is useful in other energy science and technology units. In this unit, the general problem that is addressed is the fact that Americans use a lot of energy, with the consequences that we have a dwindling supply of fossil fuels, and we are emitting a lot of carbon dioxide and other air pollutants. The specific project that students are assigned to address is an aspect of this problem that requires them to identify an action they can take in their own live to reduce their overall energy (or fossil fuel) consumption.

The Seven Steps of Problem Solving

1.  Identify the problem

Clearly state the problem. (Short, sweet and to the point. This is the "big picture" problem, not the specific project you have been assigned.)

2.  Establish what you want to achieve

• Completion of a specific project that will help to solve the overall problem.
• In one sentence answer the following question: How will I know I've completed this project?
• List criteria and constraints: Criteria are things you want the solution to have. Constraints are limitations, sometimes called specifications, or restrictions that should be part of the solution. They could be the type of materials, the size or weight the solution must meet, the specific tools or machines you have available, time you have to complete the task and cost of construction or materials.

3.  Gather information and research

• Research is sometimes needed both to better understand the problem itself as well as possible solutions.
• Don't reinvent the wheel – looking at other solutions can lead to better solutions.
• Use past experiences.

4.  Brainstorm possible solutions

List and/or sketch (as appropriate) as many solutions as you can think of.

5.  Choose the best solution

Evaluate solution by: 1) Comparing possible solution against constraints and criteria 2) Making trade-offs to identify "best."

6.  Implement the solution

• Develop plans that include (as required): drawings with measurements, details of construction, construction procedure.
• Define tasks and resources necessary for implementation.
• Implement actual plan as appropriate for your particular project.

7.  Test and evaluate the solution

• Compare the solution against the criteria and constraints.
• Define how you might modify the solution for different or better results.
• Egg Drop - Use this demonstration or activity to introduce and use the problem solving method. Encourages creative design.
• Solving Energy Problems - Unit project is assigned and students begin with problem solving techniques to begin to address project. Mostly they learn that they do not know enough yet to solve the problem.
• Energy Projects - Students use what they learned about energy systems to create a project related to identifying and carrying out a personal change to reduce energy consumption.

The results of the problem solving activity provide a basis for the entire semester project. Collect and review the worksheets to make sure that students are started on the right track.

Learn the basics of the analysis of forces engineers perform at the truss joints to calculate the strength of a truss bridge known as the “method of joints.” Find the tensions and compressions to solve systems of linear equations where the size depends on the number of elements and nodes in the trus...

Through role playing and problem solving, this lesson sets the stage for a friendly competition between groups to design and build a shielding device to protect humans traveling in space. The instructor asks students—how might we design radiation shielding for space travel?

A process for technical problem solving is introduced and applied to a fun demonstration. Given the success with the demo, the iterative nature of the process can be illustrated.

The culminating energy project is introduced and the technical problem solving process is applied to get students started on the project. By the end of the class, students should have a good perspective on what they have already learned and what they still need to learn to complete the project.

Hacker, M, Barden B., Living with Technology , 2nd edition. Albany NY: Delmar Publishers, 1993.

Other Related Information

This lesson was originally published by the Clarkson University K-12 Project Based Learning Partnership Program and may be accessed at http://internal.clarkson.edu/highschool/k12/project/energysystems.html.

Contributors

Supporting program, acknowledgements.

This lesson was developed under National Science Foundation grants no. DUE 0428127 and DGE 0338216. However, these contents do not necessarily represent the policies of the National Science Foundation, and you should not assume endorsement by the federal government.

Last modified: August 16, 2023

Robotics for Kids: The Future With AI and Robotics Education

R obotics for kids is an exciting and engaging way to introduce children to the world of technology, engineering, and programming. By getting into this interactive field, kids can develop essential skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and coding. It’s never too early for kids to explore their curiosity for robotics, as various robotic toys and kits cater to different ages and interests.

Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) focused and clever robotic toys help kids understand the science behind circuits and motion and inspire them to take on more challenging projects in the future. 

The Foundations of Robotics

When teaching kids about robotics, understanding the basics is the first part. Robotics is an exciting field combining STEM elements.

Let’s start with the core components that make up robotics:

• Mechanical Engineering : This aspect deals with robot design, construction, and operation. It involves understanding materials, structures, and mechanisms that enable robots to perform various tasks, such as moving, grabbing, and interacting with objects.
• Electrical Engineering : In this area, kids learn about electronic circuits and components that power robotic systems. They’ll explore topics such as voltage, current, and resistance, helping them grasp how electrical signals control a robot’s movements and functions.
• Computer Programming : At the heart of a robot lies its ‘brain’ – a computer or microcontroller that processes information and sends commands to its mechanical and electrical components. Kids can create code that brings a robot to life by learning programming languages like Scratch or Python.

With these components covered, kids can create robots, experimenting with other designs and functions. 

Getting Started With Robotics

For beginners, it’s good to start with a simple design and building projects, like creating a bristlebot, a tiny robot made from a toothbrush head, a battery, and a small motor. This simple project introduces the basic concepts of robot design and encourages hands-on learning.

When explaining robotics to kids, maintain a casual tone and keep explanations relatable and straightforward. Encourage creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking as crucial skills for thriving in robotics.

Choosing a Starter Robotics Kit

Consider investing in a starter robotics kit to make the initial jump enjoyable. Here are some popular options for various age groups:

• LEGO Education WeDo 2.0
• Dash Robot by Wonder Workshop
• mBot by Makeblock
• LEGO Mindstorms EV3

These kits typically come with clear instructions, software, and all the necessary components to build a functional robot. They offer a learning experience with simple, well-guided projects to help kids familiarize themselves with coding, electronics, and mechanics.

Considerations and Challenges in Robotics for Kids

While robotics offers kids an exciting gateway into technology and innovation, it will have some challenges and other considerations. 

Firstly, the cost can be a significant factor; not all families can easily access expensive robotics kits or resources. It’s vital to explore cost-effective alternatives or seek out community programs that provide access to robotics education. Robot kits have a wide price range, from beginner to more complex, so there is a right fit for every family. 

Additionally, supervision is crucial, especially for younger children. Working with electronic components and programming requires guidance to ensure safety and practical learning. 

Moreover, the learning curve varies from child to child. Some may grasp concepts quickly, while others need more time and patience. Recognizing these challenges helps us approach robotics education for children in a more supportive way, ensuring that every child can explore and learn at their own pace.

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Digging deeper into robotics.

For kids, programming is vital in helping them understand how to give robots the intelligence and capabilities to perform the desired tasks. Kids can start by learning block-based programming languages like Scratch, which provide an easy way to grasp coding concepts without syntax complexity.

Children can explore more advanced programming languages like Python and Java as they progress. Python is a versatile language favored by many for its readability and ease of use. In contrast, Java, though more complex, is widely used in various industries and provides a solid foundation for further learning.

This is a list of programming languages that can be used in robotics:

• Scratch (block-based)

The Science Behind Robotics

Understanding science will help kids to comprehend robotics fully. The science behind robotics involves various fields, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and mechanical engineering. By grasping these concepts, kids can further enhance their robotic creations and make them more advanced and efficient.

AI and machine learning, in particular, have been instrumental in making robots more adept at mimicking human behavior and learning from their environments. These technologies allow robots to analyze large data sets and draw new insights, enabling them to adapt and grow over time.

For instance, comparing AI, machine learning, and robotics can be as follows:

• Key Focus: Simulating human intelligence in machines
• Application in Robotics: Decision-making and pattern recognition
• Key Focus: Algorithms that learn from data and improve over time
• Application in Robotics: Autonomously adapting to new scenarios
• Key Focus: Design, construction, and operation of robots
• Application in Robotics: Physical implementation of AI and machine learning concepts

Taking Robotics to the Next Level

For kids who have already mastered the basics of robotics, various advanced projects can help them further deepen their understanding. By participating in more complex projects, they’ll enhance crucial skills like problem-solving, coding, and engineering .

Some advanced project ideas include:

• Walking robots : Designing a robot that can walk using servo motors, microcontrollers, and sensors
• Remote-controlled robots : Building a robot that can be controlled wirelessly through a smartphone or a custom remote control
• Autonomous robots : Creating a self-driving robot that can navigate using different sensors, like ultrasonic or infrared

These projects provide a great learning experience and allow kids to showcase their creations to the community by sharing videos, participating in online forums, and entering robotics competitions.

Robotics in Real-Life Applications

Robotics isn’t just a fun hobby – it’s a growing field with a wide range of real-life applications that have the potential to make an immense impact. Here are some examples of where robotics is playing a vital role:

• Self-driving cars : Companies like Tesla and Waymo are working on fully autonomous vehicles that rely on advanced robotics and artificial intelligence. Introducing kids to robotics can increase their interest in the technology powering these cars.
• Manufacturing : Robotics is transforming the manufacturing industry by automating tasks, improving efficiency, and reducing the risk of human injuries. Familiarizing kids with robotics can prepare them for career opportunities.
• NASA : Robotics is playing a significant role in space exploration, too. NASA uses robots like the Mars rovers to collect and analyze data from other planets, helping scientists learn more about our solar system.

Taking robotics to the next level helps kids hone their skills and exposes them to the vast possibilities of applying their knowledge to real-life scenarios. 

The Future of Robotics

In the coming years, we anticipate many breakthroughs in robotics and AI technology, leading to the development of more advanced and user-friendly robots. These innovations will significantly impact people’s everyday lives, including kids, who will grow up surrounded by technology and automation.

Children should be introduced to robotics at a young age or whenever they show interest in how things work. Encouraging kids to study topics related to robotics, AI, and technology will equip them with the necessary skills and spark their curiosity and creativity. 

Here are some aspects kids can focus on:

• Coding : Learning to code helps build a strong foundation for understanding and interacting with robots and AI systems
• STEM education : Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are essential fields that contribute to advancing robotics and AI
• Problem-solving : Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills will enable kids to adapt to and understand the complexities of future technology

Integrating robots and AI will play a significant role in various sectors, such as education, healthcare, and transportation. 

For kids, this might translate into classrooms becoming more interactive with AI-driven teaching assistants that can customize learning experiences. Additionally, robotic toys could engage and stimulate creativity while teaching programming and other skills. There would also be a greater emphasis on technologically driven extracurricular activities, including robotic clubs and competitions.

As we wrap up, it’s clear that robotics isn’t just an excellent hobby for kids; it’s a window into a future filled with exciting possibilities. It’s more than just coding and gears; it sparks curiosity, builds problem-solving skills, and opens doors to creativity. 

There are hurdles like cost and the need for guidance, but these are small compared to the enormous benefits. By giving kids a head start in robotics, we’re not just keeping them busy with a fun activity. We’re preparing them for a world where technology is everywhere. And who knows? Today’s kids tinkering with robots could lead to the next big tech revolution.

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