Strategy: A systematic plan for generating possible solutions that can be tested to see if they are correct. They permit some degree of control over task (General/Conscious Awareness)
Initial Goal = Strategy Needed.
Algorithms = A problem solving strategy in which all solutions are generated and tested until solution is guaranteed, e.g. computers at chess.
- All Solutions generated
- Solution is guaranteed
- Not how humans solve problems
Heuristic = An informal and economical method of testing problem solutions without guarantee of success, e.g. humans play chess.
- Shortcuts
- Not guarantee success
- How humans solve problems
Means-End Analysis: One always keeps the final goal in mind, but works towards sub-goals.
- Limit search to find jam
- Becoming psychologist through achieving in courses.
Working Backwards: Involves starting with the goal and working backwards to obtain an understanding of the solution.
- Math problems
- Makes meals from recipes
- Used when goal is clear but strategy needs clarifying.
Hill Climbing: A cognitive strategy that involves focusing on the notion that every action moves us somehow close to our goal state.
- Become psychologist by passing assessments.
- Breakdown to slowly get to goal
Most people use a combination of heuristic strategies to solve complex problems