# Problem Solving Algorithm Problem to solve should be represented as a "problem map" (cfr [[Concept Map]] and [[Concept Network]]). ## Problem solving algorithm The following algorithm can be used to tackle any problem: 1. If you hate the problem, start from trying to work around it. Solving problems you hate is very inefficient! 2. If your problem needs just a few hours, you do not need much help. Pick a good day and invest a few hours. This algorithm is not for you. Here we only discuss hard or complex problems that span over the cycle of many days 3. Start the **problem solving loop** that may take days or decades 4. You need to strive at waking up naturally with the problem on your mind. Any concept map that makes part of the problem should ideally be the first map that battles its way to your conscious focus! Your morning thoughts are hard to control, but with a bit of self-training, you can have some influence 5. Cut off all external disruptions: phone, e-mail, Twitter, radio, etc. Install a lock in your room 6. Drink coffee or tea. If you avoid caffeine, rehydrate properly 7. While thinking and drinking, do not turn on TV. Do not talk to others. Focus on the problem. This is one of your most precious morning moments that needs best protection 8. In [protected mental computation](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/How_to_solve_any_problem%3F#Protected_mental_computation) slot, let your mind go loco with creative inspiration: think, make notes, try [neural creativity](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/Neural_creativity "Neural creativity"), etc. It is ok to get very excited, to walk around, to rip hair out of your head. If you want to punch the wall in excitement, you are on a good way. If you are a cool thinker, that's cool too. If creativity does not come, you may start from improving your sleep. See: [Science of sleep](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/Science_of_sleep "Science of sleep") 9. Employ [incremental writing](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/Incremental_writing "Incremental writing") to organize your [mental computation](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/Mental_computation "Mental computation") and extend it well beyond the limits of your memory. Incremental writing is the best way to creatively elaborate on your ideas and keep track of all your thoughts 10. Use creative disruption if you get stuck in a creative groove. Any form of random input is good. Google for a subject. Read an article. I recommend [neural creativity](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/Neural_creativity "Neural creativity") first and [incremental reading](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/Incremental_reading "Incremental reading") next 11. Once you start tiring, transition to exercise, socializing, and a meal 12. Take a [siesta](https://supermemo.guru/wiki/Siesta "Siesta") to recharge mental batteries. Post siesta creativity is as good as morning creativity and may bring new qualities. If you skip napping, by my guestimate, your creative output for the day will drop by 40-60%. In my own case, 60% is possible because I use a big portion of the noontime for exercise 13. After a siesta, repeat the morning routine: rehydration, creativity, focus, computation, incremental writing, creative disruption, etc. 14. Once you start tiring, turn into more passive mode. Deploy your evening routine in low light (e.g. sipping a drink, listening to lectures or interviews in related subjects, etc.) 15. Get uninterrupted sleep at your favorite time. Don't go to bed until you are tired! This is vital for the quality of sleep! Walking or moderate exercise may help you if your bedtime turns outrageously late 16. Return back to the beginning of this problem solving loop unless you are so dismally stuck that you need to take a vacation (or work on other projects) ## References - https://supermemo.guru/wiki/How_to_solve_any_problem%3F#Reward_in_problem_solving