Problem solving skills are mental processes that allow you to take on a problem, choose the best of many problem solving techniques for that particular situation, and go through the process of finding a solution to the problem. Problem solving is considered by scientists to be the most complex intellectual function that living organisms perform. Problem solving skills are very important to individuals and/or a team, because they give you the ability to face a problem head on, use the techniques you have learned and come to a desired outcome, thus solving the problem with the least difficulty possible in the most effective way.

• Five Steps to Better Problem Solving: Outlines the steps to use critical thinking, problem solving and decision making skills in effective ways.
• Basic Guidelines to Problem Solving: Gives steps to better problem solving techniques such as defining the problem, looking at potential causes of the problem, identifying alternative approaches to resolving the problem, selecting a problem solving approach, and implementing a plan to resolve the problem.
• Cultivating Problem Solving Skills: Reviews the problem-based approach to professional development.
• Creative Problem Solving: Suggestions for problem solving and creative thinking like changing behaviors, taking action, welcoming change, and being curious.

You can test you problem solving skills by taking on word problems or other brain teasers. The Internet has many sites dedicated to just these types of exercises. We are faced with and solve problems all day long; some of our problem solving skills come naturally through performing logical everyday tasks. For example, you need to go to the bank; your brain goes through the problem solving process of figuring out what is the best time to go, what is the best route to take at that time and what is the best route to take to get back to your return destination. This might seem very simple, but it is problem solving nonetheless and puts your problem solving skills into action.

• Train Your Brain: Try over 60 problem solving exercises, from difficult to very difficult.
• Logic Puzzles: Use problem solving techniques in figuring out these logic puzzles, from easy to hard.
• Problem Solving Exercises: Attempt several problem solving exercises using word puzzles, spheres and checkerboards.

Albert Einstein once said, “We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” He was completely right, you have to be willing to not hit your head against the proverbial brick wall again and again and start learning new ways to problem solve, so when faced with the same problem numerous times, you’ll know how to effectively solve it once and for all, instead of trying the same old way that didn’t work the first, second and tenth time. There are many methods and skills created just for problem solving and are there for you to learn and start implementing—making you an expert problem solver. It makes life and work so much easier when you have the right tools to solve the problems you face.

• Problem Solving: Learn important problem solving and decision making processes.
• Handbook on Problem Solving Skills: A handbook directed at managers but has great information for anyone interested in learning more about problem solving techniques.
• Find Solutions for Your Stressors: Learn to identify your problems and use key techniques to successfully manage your stress.