Problem

A problem is an obstacle which makes it difficult to achieve a desired goal, objective or purpose. It refers to a situation, condition, or issue that is yet unresolved. In a broad sense, a problem exists when an individual becomes aware of a significant difference between what actually is and what is desired.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek πρόβλημα ("próblēma") "anything thrown forward, hindrance, obstacle, anything projecting, a headland, promontory", from προβάλλω ("probállō") "to throw or lay something in front of someone, to put forward", from prefix προ- ("pro-") "in front of" + βάλλω ("bállo") "to throw, to cast, to hurl".

Problem Solving

Every problem asks for an answer or solution. Trying to find a solution to a problem is known as problem solving. The time it takes to solve a problem is a way of measuring complexity. [cite book |last= |first= |authorlink= |coauthors=Editos of time-Life books, Inc. |title=The Puzzle Master |year=1989 |publisher=Time-Life Books |location=Alexandria, Virginia, USA |isbn=0809709287 |pages=32] Many problems have no discovered solution and are therefore classified as an open problem.seealso|List of unsolved problems

From the mid 20th century, the field of theoretical computer science has explored the use of computers to solve problems.

Examples

* Mathematical problem is a question about mathematical objects and structures that may require a distinct answer or explanation or proof. Examples include word problems at school level or deeper problems such as shading a map with only four colours.
* In society, a problem can refer to particular social issues, which if solved would yield social benefits, such as increased harmony or productivity, and conversely diminished hostility and disruption. seealso|Wicked problem
* In business and engineering, a problem is a difference between actual conditions and those that are required or desired. Often, the causes of a problem are not known, in which case root cause analysis is employed to find the causes and identify corrective actions.
* In chess, a problem is a puzzle set by somebody using chess pieces on a chess board, for others to get instruction or intellectual satisfaction from determining the solution.
* In theology, there is what is referred to as the Synoptic Problem, which includes in its discourse a concern for assumptions of historical accuracy that are challenged by apparent contradictions in the Gospels' accounts of allegedly historical events.
* In academic discourse a problem is a challenge to an assumption, an apparent conflict that requires synthesis and reconciliation. It is a normal part of systematic thinking, the address of which adds to or detracts from the veracity of a conclusion or idea.
* An optimization problem is finding the best solution from all feasible solutions. A good example of this type of problem is the travelling salesperson problem which is based on calculating the most efficient route between many places
* In computability theory a decision problem requires a simple yes-or-no answer.
* In rock climbing a problem is a series of climbing holds that forces the climber to plan and execute a certain maneuver.

ee also

* Concern
* Heuristic
* How to Solve It
* Question
* Problem-based learning
* Problematization

References