Various Problem solving Approach (Divide and Conquer, Trial and Error and Brain Storming)

Problem solving methods

1.Divide and Conquer
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A typical Divide and Conquer algorithm solves a problem using following three steps.

1. Divide: Break the given problem into subproblems of same type.
2. Conquer: Recursively solve these subproblems
3. Combine: Appropriately combine the answers

Following are some standard algorithms that are Divide and Conquer algorithms.

1) Binary Search is a searching algorithm. In each step, the algorithm compares the input element x with the value of the middle element in array. If the values match, return the index of middle. Otherwise, if x is less than the middle element, then the algorithm recurs for left side of middle element, else recurs for right side of middle element.

2) Quicksort is a sorting algorithm. The algorithm picks a pivot element, rearranges the array elements in such a way that all elements smaller than the picked pivot element move to left side of pivot, and all greater elements move to right side. Finally, the algorithm recursively sorts the subarrays on left and right of pivot element.

3) Merge Sort is also a sorting algorithm. The algorithm divides the array in two halves, recursively sorts them and finally merges the two sorted halves.

2.Trial and Error
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Trial and error is a problem solving method in which multiple attempts are made to reach a solution. It is a basic method of learning that essentially all organisms use to learn new behaviors. Trial and error is trying a method, observing if it works, and if it doesn't trying a new method. This process is repeated until success or a solution is reached.

For example imagine moving a large object such as a couch into your house. You first try to move it in through the front door and it gets stuck. You then try it

through the back door and it doesn't fit. You then move it through the double patio doors and it fits! You just used trial and error to solve a problem. Edward
Trial and error is also a heuristic method of problem solving, repair, tuning, or obtaining knowledge. In the field of computer science, the method is called

generate and test. In elementary algebra, when solving equations, it is "guess and check".

This approach can be seen as one of the two basic approaches to problem solving, contrasted with an approach using insight and theory. However, there are intermediate methods which for example, use theory to guide the method, an approach known as guided empiricism.

3.Brain Storming
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Brainstorming is a popular idea invention and problem solving technique. Brainstorming is a method that is used by leaders and managers when they need to deal with complex problems. Brainstorming helps when there is need to manifest the next steps in difficult situations.
Brainstorming is a group or individual creativity technique by which efforts are made to find a conclusion for a specific problem by gathering a list of ideas spontaneously contributed by its member(s).

Brainstorming can be very helpful in the decision making of our daily life. I Brainstorm when need to find a creative idea or solutions for a problem. There are many steps and definitions are available on the internet for Brainstorming.

Brainstorming helps:
When you stuck with a problem and you are not able to find any solutions.
When multiple ways lead to the same destination, Brainstorming help us find the best.
When priorities are not clear and you do not know which step is to take first.
When you need to discover the relationship between different activities of a problem.
When you need to find a creative approach or Idea.
When you want to manifest the conflicts between the thoughts/activities regarding some problem.
When you are not able to conclude a final decision.

Steps to Brainstorming:
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Plan Brainstorming Session: Plan the activities you want to cover in the session. You can brainstorm individually or this can take place in-group. It is good to have 4 to 6 people at most. Make a Plan who is going to participate and let them know in advance. It will make sure that everyone has already done some research. Choose a peaceful place. Have a pen, paper and documents/tools having pitch of the problem. Set a fixed timeline such as half or one hour. Stay awayfrom mails and Silent your phone. Make sure no distraction is there during the session.
Prepare a Graph or Structure: Write down the problem and available options. This is the most important thing. Prepare an Activity chart or Affinity Diagrams. Affinity diagrams are my favourite way to organize information. They help sort out common ideas into one theme. It helps when multiple activities are messing with each other.
Discuss the problem, but Focus on the solution: Now discuss about the problem and available options. Focus on a single set of theme or ideas that is most important first. Consider everyone’s opinion. Let each of them brainstorms. Make a List of the pros and cons of each choice. It helps appropriate decision-making later.
Take a break and open up minds: A short break of 5 minutes refreshes mind and helps us to detach from the problem. It helps us to come up with an efficient solution. Cool down and Take a glass of water.
Focus on Priorities: Draw the relationship between various tasks. Classify the dependent and independent tasks. Keep independent task at different place and draw dependent tasks into an organized chart together as displayed in the Wiki. It assists us assigning priority to task on which other tasks are dependent.
Finalize the solution: You should be good to take a decision based on the priorities, pros and cons of various options available. I believe you will be able to find some new ideas in the brainstorming session as well. Choose the creative one. As Salvador Dali said, “Have no fear of perfection, you’ll never reach it”.
Action Steps: Write down the next action steps. Assigning some timeline ensures faster process in execution. If you are not able to conclude a decision, you have a clear and reasonable perspective now. Therefore, do some more research and plan another session to brainstorm. Yeah, it is worth it.