Monday, February 29, 2016

Working backward to solve problems


Imagine where you want to be someday. Now, how did you get there? Retrograde analysis is a style of problem solving where you work backwards from the endgame you want. It can help you win at chess -- or solve a problem in real life.
(a) We can work through a problem or situation backward, in order to solve it. For example, as Maurice Ashley suggests, reading a sentence backward can help us spot mistakes. Or (b) we can begin with the end in mind, such as visualizing a future where we've actually achieved a goal, then working backward to where we are in the present, so as to map out the pathways to realizing that vision.

The TED-Ed description is (b), while Ashley's talk is more focused on (a).

Reference:  Part 3 - Dealing with Everyday Exigencies.

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