1. Póyla’s Problem Solving Process

2. What is Pólya’s process? A four step procedure to help solve scholastic problems. Although generally regarded as a tool for math and science, it can also be used for other academic areas.

3. What are the four steps? 1) Understand the problem. 2) Make a plan. 3) Carry out the plan. 4) Look back.

4. 1) Understand the problem If you do not understand the problem, you cannot solve it. Read the problem carefully. Think about what the question is asking.

5. Questions to help understand the problem “Do you understand all of the words in the problem?” “What is the problem asking me?” “What am I trying to solve for?” “Can you restate the problem in your own words?”

6. 2) Make a plan There are a numerous amount of ways to solve a problem, some methods are more preferred than others. Choosing the appropriate plan for a problem takes practice.

7. Helpful plans Use a formula. Make an orderly list. Draw a picture. Look at similar problems and compare. Guess and check.* Look up the answer and work backwards.* Use your head.

8. 3) Carry out the plan Be patient! Be mindful of your work. Check each step of the plan as you proceed. If it looks like the plan will not work, discard it and try a different plan.

9. 4) Look back Check your answer. (Are the units correct?) Try plugging in your answer. If needed, could you find the solution another way? Ask yourself, “does my answer make sense?”