[header] How to improve problem solving skills [title] Define the problem clearly. [step] This is an outwardly simple but vital step. If you don't properly understand the problem, your solutions may be ineffective or fail entirely. 
To define the problem you will have to ask questions and look at different angles. For example, is there one problem or actually several? Can you restate the problem in your own words? By spending time with the problem you will better understand it and be equipped to generate solutions.