AP Psych Module 2.2b: Problem Solving Processes and Obstacles

Algorithms

A step-by-step procedure that guarantees a solution to a problem.

Heuristics

A mental shortcut or rule of thumb that helps solve problems faster, but doesn’t guarantee a correct solution.

Insight

A sudden realization of a problem’s solution, often called an “aha” moment.

Confirmation Bias

The tendency to notice or favor information that supports what you already believe.

Fixation

The inability to see a problem from a new perspective, which can block problem-solving.

Mental Set

Using old strategies to solve new problems.

Executive Functions

Mental skills that help plan, focus, and manage behavior.

Intuition

Knowing or understanding something immediately, without conscious reasoning.

Representativeness Heuristic

Judging the likelihood of something based on how well it matches a typical example or prototype.

Availability Heuristic

Estimating the likelihood of events based on how easily examples come to mind.

Overconfidence

The tendency to overestimate the accuracy of your knowledge or judgments.

Belief Perseverance

Sticking to your beliefs even when evidence shows they’re wrong.

Framing

The way information is presented that can influence decisions and judgments.

Gambler’s Fallacy

The mistaken belief that past events affect the probability of future independent events.

Sunk Cost Fallacy

Continuing a behavior or investment because of past time, effort, or money, even when it’s no longer beneficial.