1. Problem Solving Tricks
Creative Inventions and Robotics
Welcome to the Build-It-Yourself Laboratory.
I’m John, chief inventor at Build-It-Yourself
Build-It-Yourself crew members are on a mission to save the world from vile villains who build mean machines and scurrilous scoundrels who make a mess.
Our missions are tough and require finely tuned problem solving skills.
If you follow these problem solving tricks, you’ll build contraptions that will “wow” the world.

2. Problem Solving Tricks
Identify the problem. Set goals.
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Problem Solving Trick #1:
Make sure you understand the problem.
Define the problem in a few simple words.
Set your sights on a goal.

3. Problem Solving Tricks
Research.
Brainstorm.
Build on the ideas of others.
Don’t reinvent the wheel.
Problem Solving Trick #2:
Don’t reinvent the wheel.
Share your ideas generously.
Study what others have done and build on top of their best ideas.

4. Problem Solving Tricks
Organize a hot shot team.
Build teamwork.
Problem Solving Trick #3:
Almost nothing important ever gets built by one person alone.
How many thousands of people do you think it took to build a rocket ship to the moon?
Teamwork is essential to building complex inventions.
Plus it’s more fun when your building with a hot shot team of friends.

5. Problem Solving Tricks
Break down a complex solution …
into simple solutions.
Problem Solving Trick #4:
If you break down your solution into a set of simple solutions, you’ll be amazed at how easy it can be to build and improve the most amazing contraptions.
If you glue everything together into one honking big rat’s nest, you’ll most likely end up with a mess and no way to improve it.

6. Problem Solving Tricks
Document your progress.
Problem Solving Trick #5:
Keep a record of your ideas so you and your teammates can remember and connect good ideas more easily.

7. Problem Solving Tricks
#1 Identify the problem and set goals.
#2 Research.
#3 Work together.
#4 Break your solution into simple parts.
#5 Document.
Before we try to tackle a tough project, let’s document the Build-It-Yourself problem solving approach in your lab book.