Problem solving is the systematic process of identifying, analyzing, and resolving challenges through structured frameworks and creative thinking techniques. It spans from tactical troubleshooting to strategic decision-making and applies across business, engineering, operations, and personal contexts. The key distinction: effective problem solving addresses root causes, not symptoms, using a combination of analytical rigor, creative exploration, and validated decision criteria. Whether dissecting failures through root cause analysis or forecasting scenarios for strategic planning, mastering problem solving means choosing the right tool for the challenge at hand—and knowing when to pivot between analytical depth and creative breadth.