Problem Framing

The process you follow to solve a problem directly impacts your ability to find a solution. I’ve heard many complaints about math and science over the years where people improperly conclude that they “just don’t get it” or “it’s not my thing”. I do understand that intellignece can be expressed in other ways. However, failing to understand foundational principals will cascade into long-term failure in subjects like math where success is path-dependent.

Math problems are more difficult when the process for solving them are not clear. Tests and homework assignments are crafted to confuse and misdirect test takers.

Don’t think — if you have to think you’ve already gotten the problem wrong.

- My 7th grade math teacher

I had the good fortune of attending a public engineering magnet program for high school at Miami Coral Park Senior High . Coach Kirkpatric who we affectionedly called “Coach K” was an amazing teacher who taught physics and engineering courses. Coach K served in the army, cursed like a sailor, worked in aerospace engineering, and he brought fun and excigtement to the classroom. He was tough — but always fair. He could admit when homework problems had a few extra curveballs and afford us a little extra time. I remember the way Coach K asked us to set up our problems. I used this methodology through undergrad and grad school to earn 2 engineering degrees. I still use it to frame problems at work (financial services). May it serve you well. Thanks Coach K!