Problem Solving Rules

1. What's the question? Make sure and read the problem carefully and don't assume anything! This is a very common mistake and is easily avoided.
2. What's given? Write down everything you think will be needed that the problem gives you.
3. Working with the information gathered in step 2 and keeping an eye on the final answer, write down any conversions and formulas you think you will need.
4. Set up the problem. Make sure you include units! Also, this is the time that you sort through the information gathered in step 2. Many problems give additional information that's used only to set up the problem but isn't needed in any calculations.
5. Work the calculation. Your first check is to see that the answer has the proper units. A second check, which isn't always possible, is a common sense check. Look at your answer and ask yourself, "does this make sense?" As a final check, make sure you've answered the question.