Introduction

A major issue I have noticed while helping junior developers is that of problem solving. This has gotten me to think of the different approach I personally take when it comes to problem solving and how it differs from that of the junior developers and the gap between the two.

The following post will go over both, the mistakes that I have noticed junior developers making, as well as some approaches i take to problem solving that has helped me quickly find an optimal solution.

Put it on Paper

Pen and Paper is an important tool that can be utilized in order to help developers reach a solution. Some problems that we try to solve have many different components. It can be difficult for us to visualize a solution by just going through it in our head.

Personally writing the following on paper has helped me reach a solution to different problems:

• drawing a flow chart
• using drawings to visualize a solution
• listing out all the components of the problem and trying to find a connection between them

Different techniques can be used for different problems. The most important aspect of this approach is to do something that helps you see the problem better and visualize a solution. understanding the problem is half of the solution.

Break The Problem Down, Dig Deeper

A lot of times we face difficulty in finding a solution to a problem due to not decomposing it into manageable and understandable elements. By breaking down the problem into smaller chunks you hit two birds with one stone. First, you will obtain a more detailed understating of the problem. Second, it immensely facilitated the search process for a solution.

Don’t Box Yourself In

A pitfall that I have noticed most junior developers fall into during their search for a solution is quickly jumping to conclusion and not being inquisitive. They simply eliminate solutions prematurely without proper investigation and delving deeply into their idea for a solution. This mainly stems from lack of confidence, and inconsistency in the analysis process.

It is incredibly important not to brush off a solution without solid justification derived from detailed analysis and by following a proven and consistent methodology.

All the potential solution should be explored to the end and eliminated based on established criteria for the process of elimination. Always research the solutions that comes to mind.

As an example, a developer might face a situations when working with a library or language rarely used. This makes it challenging to navigate through a library in search of a function which may result in giving up on a solution idea while in reality the function exists in the library and his/her solution could have been implemented.

Intelligent Trial and Error

Trial and error is very important when trying to find a solution. Its important to make an intelligent effort at trial and error. You can try to flick as many switches until something works. A better approach would be to know what change you are making. If there exists a gap in your knowledge it always helps to research.

An Inquisitive Attitude

Both in problem solving as well as life it always helps to have an inquisitive attitude towards the unknown. It is important to dig deep into different technologies you are using and understand them from the ground up. Additionally in software development, establishing a process and consistency are the key factors in guiding you towards a perfect solution.

Take a Break

Often it is very helpful to take a break from the problem you are trying to solve and return to it with a fresh mind. This helps you see the problem from a new perspective and think of new possible solutions.

Practice Makes Perfect

As Cliche as it may sound practice makes perfect. problem solving is a skill that if practiced regularly, will improve over time.

Ending Notes

The kernel of this post is knowledge. The more knowledge you have regarding different technologies, libraries, and systems you are working with the more tools you have to tackle the problems you are facing.

The most important technique to gaining more knowledge is having an inquisitive attitude towards the unknown. It is how you approach the unknown that helps you towards growing as a software developer and also in life.