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

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