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problem-solving

Guide problem-solving sessions using Polya's four steps and coaching questions.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
Search Tags:#frameworks#problem-solving#coaching#Socratic#Polya#ZPD
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ThepExcel/agent-skills --skill problem-solving-thepexcel
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: problem-solving
Source: https://github.com/ThepExcel/agent-skills/tree/main/problem-solving
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ThepExcel/agent-skills --skill problem-solving-thepexcel

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill provides a structured, guided approach to tackling challenges by prompting thoughtful questions rather than providing direct answers, improving reasoning and independence.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Guided Polya's four-step process (Understand, Plan, Execute, Review) combined with coaching techniques to scaffold reasoning.
  • Emotional handling and pacing to keep learners in the Zone of Proximal Development.
  • Bilingual question bank and references for versatile contexts (education, training, and professional problem-solving).
  • Use cases include teaching problem-solving to students, assisting engineers during debugging, and guiding teams through root-cause analysis.

Quick Start

Start a session by telling the AI: "Help me solve a problem using the Good Teacher method." Then prompt for step-by-step guidance and reflect after each step.

Frequently Asked Questions about problem-solving

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How does guided questioning help with problem-solving?▼

Guided questioning enables problem-solving by prompting thoughtful reflection at each stage, keeping you in the Zone of Proximal Development so you build reasoning skills rather than receiving direct answers.

How do I use Polya's four steps to solve a problem?▼

To use Polya's four steps for problem-solving, you progress sequentially through Understanding, Planning, Execution, and Review while answering coaching questions that scaffold your reasoning at each phase.

Can I use Socratic coaching for team root-cause analysis?▼

Yes, you can apply Socratic coaching for team root-cause analysis. The Skill uses coaching patterns to guide workplace problem-solving sessions, helping teams think through challenges and identify root causes step-by-step.

What is the best way to teach problem-solving to students?▼

The best way to teach problem-solving to students is applying a structured Socratic method that uses Polya's four steps with emotional pacing to keep learners within their Zone of Proximal Development.

When should I not use a Socratic questioning approach?▼

You should avoid a Socratic questioning approach when immediate answers are urgently needed, as this method deliberately scaffolds reasoning through guided questions rather than providing direct solutions during problem-solving sessions.

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