Break down the problem into smaller parts. If you’re studying for an exam, instead of cramming everything, focus on one topic at a time.Example: <ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Study one set of deepstash a day instead of all at once.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">If you’re preparing for a big test, break your study material into sections. Instead of saying, “I need to study all of biology,” tell yourself, “Today, I’ll focus on cell structure.” This makes the task feel less overwhelming.</li></ul>

1. Start Chunking

It means looking backward to solve problems. Instead of starting from the beginning, start from the end.Example:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Imagine bacteria doubling every day. If a lake is full after 60 days, when was it half-full? Many will say day 30, but the answer is actually day 59. If you think backward, it’s much easier!</li><li class="ql-align-justify">If you’re planning a trip, start with your return date. What do you need to do before that? Book your accommodations first, then plan your activities around that. This way, you’ll have a clearer vision of your itinerary.</li></ul>

Retrograde Analysis

Identify similarities in problems you’ve solved before.Example:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">If you’ve struggled with math problems, recognize the common types of questions to improve.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">When writing an essay, notice the common structure in essays that scored high marks. Use this pattern—introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion—to guide your writing. Recognizing these successful formats can help you improve your work.</li></ul>

2. Recognize the Patterns

Example:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Think about reading a sentence like, "After reading this sentence, you will realize the the brain doesn't recognize a second 'the.'"</li></ul> When you first read it, you probably missed the second "the." This happens because our brains naturally move forward, ignoring breaks in logic.

The Problem with Our Thinking

By reversing your approach, you can find solutions more easily and avoid common mistakes. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about learning to see things differently.Start applying this mindset today, and comment how your problem-solving skills improve after a month!

CONCLUSION

"The only way to do great work is to love what you do."

Freeze a moment in the problem and visualize the next step.Example:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">If you’re facing a tough decision, list pros and cons to see your options clearly.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">If you're deciding whether to join a sports team, think about the end goal first: Do you want to be healthier or make new friends? From there, consider what steps you need to take, like trying out for the team or attending a few practices.</li></ul>

3. Use The Stepping-Stone Method

Are you tired of struggling with problems and feeling like you're always getting it wrong? What if I told you the real issue isn’t your skills, but how you’re approaching the problem? You might be surprised to find out that the solution is often hidden in reversing your thought process. Stick around, and I’ll show you how this simple shift can make a world of difference!

INTRODUCTION

Retrograde analysis can be used in various situations, from planning your career to making everyday decisions.Example:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">When choosing a college, start with what you want to achieve after graduation, and work backward to select the right path.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">If you’re struggling to communicate with a friend, think back to times when you both connected well. What worked back then? Use those successful moments as a foundation to improve your current communication.</li></ul>

REAL-LIFE

We're often stuck trying to solve problems without realizing we're making a huge mistake. It’s time to change that!

View full lesson: http://ed.ted.com/lessons/working-backward-to-solve-problems-maurice-ashley

Imagine where you want to be someday. Now, how did you get there? Retrograde analysis is a style of problem solving where you work backwards from the endgame you want. It can help you win at chess -- or solve a problem in real life. At TEDYouth 2012, chess grandmaster Maurice Ashley delves into his favorite strategy.

Talk by Maurice Ashley.

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Strategy

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Learning & Education

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Creativity

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Science & Nature

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1. Start Chunking

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