The big idea
🛠️
Solve the right problem
Most poor solutions answer the wrong problem. A structure keeps you honest before you act.
Critical Thinking · Lesson 9
Problem Solving
intermediate⏱ 15 min · 7 cards
Key term
The framework
What does DEFINE stand for?
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DEFINE
Define, Examine, Find, Identify, Narrow, Evaluate — the Mega Maester problem-solving loop.
Walk it through
Problem Solver
Problem: “Our team keeps missing deadlines.” Step through DEFINE:
D — Define
Design hand-offs slip ~3 days each sprint. What exactly is late, and how would we know it’s fixed?
Step 1 of 6
Step through DEFINE on a real problem, from definition to evaluation.
Nuance
Where the value is
Think like a Maester
A problem well defined is half solved. Spend real time on Define and Find before reaching for a fix.
Recap
Key takeaways
- ✓Poor solutions usually solve the wrong problem.
- ✓DEFINE = Define, Examine, Find, Identify, Narrow, Evaluate.
- ✓Most of the value is in defining the problem and finding its root cause.
- ✓Generate several options before judging; evaluate after acting.
Quick check
What best describes critical thinking?
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