Practical Help
With Everyday Problems & Decisions
The full SM-14 formula, which you have just read, is usually for complex, ill-structured problems that require research and study. However, problems come in a variety of complexities. Here is a shortened formula:
SM-7 For Intermediate-Type Problems and Decisions
(Can also be used as a preliminary or introduction to teaching the full SM-14 formula)
| STAGE NO. |
SM-14 NO. |
SHORT NAME: SM-7
Short Scientific Method — 7 Stages, Labeled A to G |
| A |
1 |
Curious Observation. Find a problem. |
| B |
2 |
Is There A Problem? Consider purpose, define problem, and estimate requirements to solve problem, all in relation to the time available. |
| C |
4 |
Search - Explore. Review and reflect mentally for solutions. If important enough and time is available, gather evidence as described on Pages 15. Your intuitive base may supply you with answers. |
| D |
5 |
Alternative Solutions. Be sure to devote enough time to generating logical or creative alternative solutions. |
| E |
6 |
Evaluate. If it is an important problem or decision, you must evaluate, rate, and challenge all possible solutions. Again, memories of past experiences in your intuitive base may be of help. |
| F |
7 |
Guess - Hypothesis. Time may force you to settle for “good enough.” |
| G |
11 |
Take Action! |
Instantaneous Decisions and Problem Solutions
In the course of a day you make hundreds of simple decisions and problem solutions, usually based on your intuition. They are called by such names as:
| Snap judgment |
Quick guess |
Habit decision |
| Intuitive decision |
Trial & error solution |
Instantaneous decision |
| Leap of understanding |
Good enough |
Shoot from the hip |
| Emotional decision |
Off the top of your head |
Arbitrary guess |
| Immediate apprehension |
Jumping to a conclusion |
Hasty decision |
|
Many of these solutions and decisions are really simple, unimportant, and in the habit-type class.
Others are of varied importance that you make instantly because of time frames, a good-enough answer will suffice, or you have self-confidence in your intuition.
Since some may be important, too many errors can hurt your success, relationships, or reputation. Therefore, it is important to develop your intuition.
“Man is a problem-solving, skill-using, social animal.”
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