Mathematical approach for daily problem
In mathematics, solving problem become easier if one follows a certain strategy. George Pólya showed such general strategy in his book “How to Solve It”.
His strategy is especially useful when one must solve a problem which answer is unknown yet. It is like a compass in a deep dark forest.
Although his strategy is originally for mathematical problem, it can be applied for problems in our daily life. Because we sometimes don’t know exact answer. In his strategy, following points are quite useful.
- Understand the problem : Ask yourself ‘What are the unknowns? What are the given quantities? What are the given conditions?’
- Draw a diagram : Picture, graph, mind map. Understand the problem visually.
- Find similar problem : You may experience similar problem before. Most of time you don’t need to start from zero.
- Solve related problem : If you can’t solve the problem, try to solve related problem.
- Verify your answer : To increase reliability of your answer. Especially important when you don’t know exact answer.
ref : G. Polya and “How to Solve It!” (PDF file at Ohio State University)
