E-text prepared by Frederic Lozo Copyright (C) 1998 by F. B. Lozo Introductory Note: Sequential Problem Solving is written for those with a whole brain thinking style. It is for those who seek to validate the propriety of when and under what circumstances they utilize each aspect of their intellect. Sequential Problem Solving helps those with a logical nature to develop creative right brain intuitive processes in a way that can be efficiently utilized by the orderly left brain to develop new solutions to both old and everyday problems. Included are basic study skills for high school and college students. * * * * * Sequential Problem Solving: A STUDENT HANDBOOK With Checklists for Successful Critical Thinking. By Fredric B. Lozo Mathis, Texas Copyright 1998 F.B. Lozo ISBN 0-9674166-2-0 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Problem solving checklist flowchart RESEARCH SKILLS Rapid Reading Memorization PRACTICAL PROBLEM SOLVING Learning Stream Of Consciousness PROBLEM SOLVING STEPS Problem Identification as the first step of problem solving Fact Gathering in problem solving Logic Fallacies Emotional Fallacies Credibility Fallacies Fact And Opinion Deductive Reasoning Developing a Solution Time Material Manpower Trying the Solution Manpower Management Leadership Styles Dealing With Interpersonal Conflict INTERPERSONAL PROBLEM SOLVING External Conflicts Internal Conflicts Dealing with the "Unattached" Person Interpersonal relationships -- Values PROBLEM SOLVING EVASIONS APPENDIX 1 -- OUTLINE STYLES APPENDIX 2 -- PERSUASIVE ARGUMENT FORM APPENDIX 3 -- ARGUMENTATIVE FALLACIES REFERENCES BIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX Introduction We are constantly trying to make some sense of our world and the way people treat each other. The purpose of this book is to provide a systematic way of analyzing situations and planning actions. Sequential Problem Solving is written for those who want to reassure themselves that their thinking is logically correct rather than emotionally or impulsively misguided. It provides step by step procedures for applying computer-like decision making to daily living. Many ordinary problems involve not only physical, concrete parts but also interpersonal elements. Thus problem solving involves both the physical world and the interpersonal world. For instance, when solutions to physical problems are implemented, the job manager must decide which of several leadership-managerial styles is appropriate. Are the workers mature enough and knowledgeable enough to work together as a team without supervision, or are the workers so immature and unruly that an authoritarian task master leadership style will be required, or will the workers need a teacher-leader for some period of time before they become a team?