Engineering Problem Solving
Engineering often involves applying a consistent, structured approach to the solving of problems.
A general problem-solving approach and method can be defined, although variations will be required
for specific problems.
Problems must be approached methodically, applying an algorithm, or step-by-step procedure by
which one arrives at a solution.
1.1 Problem-Solving Process
The problem-solving process for a computational problem can be outlined as follows:
1. Define the problem.
2. Create a mathematical model.
3. Develop a computational method for solving the problem.
4. Implement the computational method.
5. Test and assess the solution.
The boundaries between these steps can be blurred and for specific problems one or two of the
steps may be more important than others. Nonetheless, having this approach and strategy in mind
will help to focus our efforts as we solve problems