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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Problem Solving 101 summary
Ken Watanabe
A Simple Book for Smart People
13 mins
Brief summary
Problem Solving 101 by Ken Watanabe is a practical guide to solve different types of problems in any situation. It explains the basics of problem-solving, including identifying the root cause, generating ideas, and evaluating solutions in an easy-to-understand way.
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Problem Solving 101
Summary of 6 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 6
Problem Solving 101 starts with breaking your problem down to its core.
We come across problems every day, like grammar difficulties in English class or tension with colleagues or friends. No matter the scale of the problems we face, not all of us are well-equipped to solve them.
That’s where the four essential steps come in. They can help you solve any problem.
The first step is to identify what your problem is really about. To do so, you have to take the problem and break it down into smaller parts.
For example, let’s imagine you’re struggling with poor grades in math. At first glance, the problem looks huge and almost impossible, so you wonder whether you should stop playing soccer with your friends to devote more time to studying. But before you ring your friends to tell them you’re off the team, think about the problem in another way.
You should ask yourself which categories are causing you trouble. Is it geometry, algebra and/or fractions? If only geometry is bringing down your overall marks, then only geometry should be your focus of increased study. But before you start studying, break your problem down even further.
Take a narrower look at geometry and single out the specific problems you have with the subject. Is it measuring cylinder volume or trapezoid areas, or is it the Pythagorean theorem? Once you’ve pinpointed your weak spot, you can begin to solve the problem much more effectively by focusing all your attention on it – and you will probably have time to play soccer with your friends, too!
So now you know exactly where your problem is. However, you haven’t solved it yet. Next up, work out what exactly is causing your problem.
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What is Problem Solving 101 about?
Problem Solving 101 (2009) is a short and snappy guide to problem-solving. Originally written to help kids become better problem solvers, it can help anyone who wants to improve their ability to resolve issues, no matter how big or small.
Problem Solving 101 Review
Problem Solving 101 (2009) by Ken Watanabe is a practical guide that equips readers with the essential skills to tackle problems effectively. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Packed with useful techniques and strategies, it offers actionable advice that can be applied to various aspects of life, making it a valuable resource for problem-solving in any field.
- By presenting real-life examples and case studies, the book enhances understanding and illustrates how the concepts can be put into practice, keeping readers engaged and interested.
- The book's clear and concise explanations make complex problem-solving methods accessible to everyone, ensuring that readers won't find it boring.
Best quote from Problem Solving 101
Problem-solving isnt a talent that some people have and others dont. Its a habit.
—Ken Watanabe
Who should read Problem Solving 101?
- Schoolkids and young adults
- Business owners and leaders
- Anyone who wants to realize their dreams
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Problem Solving 101 FAQs
What is the main message of Problem Solving 101?
The main message of Problem Solving 101 is to approach problem-solving using a structured and systematic approach.
How long does it take to read Problem Solving 101?
The reading time for Problem Solving 101 varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Problem Solving 101 a good book? Is it worth reading?
Problem Solving 101 is a valuable read for anyone looking to enhance their problem-solving skills. It provides practical strategies and techniques that can be applied in various aspects of life.
Who is the author of Problem Solving 101?
The author of Problem Solving 101 is Ken Watanabe.
What to read after Problem Solving 101?
If you're wondering what to read next after Problem Solving 101, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Bulletproof Problem Solving by Charles Conn and Robert McLean
- The Creative Thinking Handbook by Chris Griffiths & Melina Costi
- The Five Elements of Effective Thinking by Edward B. Burger and Michael Starbird
- Talk by Elizabeth Stokoe
- Six Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono
- Either/Or by Soren Kierkegaard
- How to Talk to Anyone by Leil Lowndes
- The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga
- Negotiation Made Simple by John Lowry
- Decision Making and Problem Solving by John Adair