In the four common steps in effective problem solving, which action is the second step?

• A. Select an effective solution
• B. Define the problem; create a problem statement
• C. Generate alternative solutions
• D. Implement solution and monitor

Answer: (C)

In effective problem solving, you start by defining the problem clearly so everyone is aligned on what needs to be addressed. The next move is to generate alternative solutions. This step invites you to brainstorm a wide range of possible approaches without judging them yet, which helps prevent early narrowing to a single idea and opens the door to creative or unconventional options. Having multiple viable paths makes it easier to compare trade-offs, feasibility, costs, and potential impacts before committing. After you’ve built a set of alternatives, you then evaluate and select the best one, and finally implement the chosen solution and monitor its effectiveness. Skipping the generation of alternatives and jumping straight to choosing limits your options and can lead to a suboptimal or missed opportunity.