Bryn Mawr College Quantitative Skills: Problem Solving Tips

Problem Solving

General Tips

Problem solving is one of the more challenging aspects of many math and science courses. Follow these steps for assistance in finding the answer!

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Write down the information given in the problem. Include units and labels.

Determine what is "wanted" (i.e. the answer).

Find additional information such as conversion factors, molar masses, etc.

Set up the solution - check units

Solve

Check the answer - Does it make sense?

Select your level! Note how the more challenging problems use the same information and concepts more complexly.

Note: These problems have been deliberately selected for their lack of course specific content to help focus on problem solving.

Easy: A very basic problem.; Helpful for basic understanding.; Generally requires application of only one concept.
Average: A typical problem.; May require application of two or more concepts.; May require information not given in the problem.
Challenging: Thought provoking!; Requires synthesis of many concepts, including those from earlier material.; May require more complicated mathematical manipulations.