Problem Solving and Creativity

Start with the foundations

The mind map “Thinking” introduces cognition and concepts alongside problem solving. It is a useful starting point if you want to see how the ideas on this page fit together. Follow it with “Defining the Problem”, which considers problems without a clear statement of the goal or the operations needed to reach it.

As you study, note the difference between identifying a goal and deciding how to reach it. You can return to those ideas when reading the other maps.

Explore approaches and creativity

The “Creativity” mind map describes creativity as a form of problem solving and considers solutions that are novel, useful and appropriate. Another map on analogical problem solving looks at using a previously experienced problem as a base for a current one.

“Cognition 12 & 13” brings several approaches together, including the Gestalt and information-processing approaches, analogies, experts and novices, and creative problem solving. Compare its branches with the earlier maps to see where their ideas overlap.

Use maps, flashcards and a quiz

After exploring the maps, use the flashcard deck on problem solving and creativity to revisit the terms. Then try “Problem solving quiz”. Use your responses to decide which maps or cards to look at again. A map can help you see relationships between ideas, while flashcards give you a way to return to individual terms.

Place the topic in context

Problem Solving and Creativity is one section of Cognitive Psychology and Thinking in Psychology. Resources such as “Thinking” and “Cognition 12 & 13” connect problem solving with wider ideas about cognition and thinking. Use those connections to organize your study within the unit, rather than treating each resource as a separate list of terms.

Pick a map and follow its branches through to a quiz or flashcard deck.