Question

Arrange in the correct order the following four basic steps for finding the solution to a problem: check your work, analyze, solve, and plan.

Short answer

Analyze, Plan, Solve, Check Your Work.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze

The first step is to analyze the problem. This involves understanding what is being asked, identifying what information is given, and determining what needs to be calculated or figured out.

Plan

The second step is to plan. This step involves devising a strategy to tackle the problem. Think about the formulas, methods, or steps that need to be followed to solve the problem.

Solve

The third step is to solve. Follow the plan created in the previous step and carry out the necessary calculations or problem-solving actions.

Check Your Work

The final step is to check your work. Review the solution to ensure that it is correct and that all steps have been followed accurately. Verify the calculations and make sure the solution makes sense in the context of the problem.

Key concepts

Analyze the Problem

The first step in problem-solving is to **analyze the problem**. This means understanding what the problem is asking you to do. Start by:

• Identifying the key details given in the problem.
• Determining what exactly needs to be calculated or resolved.
• Breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts.

For example, if you are solving a math problem, read it carefully to understand all variables involved and what needs to be solved. Do not rush this step, as a clear understanding of the problem is crucial.

Plan a Strategy

After analyzing the problem, the next step is to **plan your strategy**. This is where you figure out how to approach solving the problem:

• Think about the formulas, methods, or steps that will lead to the solution.
• Select the best tools or techniques based on the type of problem.
• Organize your thoughts and steps logically.

Planning is akin to drawing a roadmap before a journey. It ensures that no important steps are missed and that you are clear on how to proceed. For instance, in math, if the problem involves geometry, decide which theorems or properties might help you solve it.

Solve the Problem

Once you have a plan, it's time to **solve the problem**. This involves:

• Following the steps laid out in your plan.
• Carrying out necessary calculations or logical steps methodically.
• Making sure to stay organized and keep track of every step and result.

Pay careful attention to detail. Accuracy in this step is crucial to arriving at the correct solution. For example, in solving algebra equations, you need to solve them step-by-step without skipping any part to avoid mistakes.

Check Your Work

The final step in problem-solving is to **check your work**. This ensures that your solution is correct and consistent:

• Verify each step to ensure calculations were done accurately.
• Make sure the solution makes sense in the context of the problem.
• Look out for any possible mistakes or misinterpretations.

Checking your work helps catch any errors before they become problematic. This step is analogous to proofreading a written piece; it ensures the final product is polished and error-free.