How to Solve It

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How to Solve It (1945) is a small volume by mathematician George Pólya describing methods of problem solving.

How to Solve It suggests the following steps when solving a mathematical problem:

  • First, you have to understand the problem.
  • After understanding, then make a plan.
  • Carry out the plan.
  • Look back on your work. How could it be better?

If this technique fails, Pólya advises:

"If you can't solve a problem, then there is an easier problem you can solve: find it."

And:

"If you cannot solve the proposed problem, try to solve first some related problem. Could you imagine a more accessible related problem?"

External links

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