1) Read and ANALYZE the problem.
2) Find & list immediately the given data & the unknown data.
3) Remember some datas like constants (for example "g" (9.8 m/s^2), or the density of water (1 gram/cm^3), or the boiling point (100 degree Celsius) and freezing point of water (0 degree Celsius)) that are needed to find or solve the unknown data, even if NOT EXPLICITLY indicated in the problem, are usually understood as a given data already because, simply, they are a constant.
4) Pick which formula you need to choose to arrive at solving the unknown data. The formula you need to choose should contain ANY OR ALL OF THE GIVEN DATA AND ONE OF THE UNKNOWN DATA.
5) IMPORTANT:
For every number of unknown data, that is also the number of formula you need to use! For example, if you have 2 unknown data, you need 2 formulas to solve it. If you have 3 unknown data, you need 3 formulas to solve it. You just simply have to know what are your unknown datas are so that you will have an idea how many formulas you will need to solve each of it.
Knowing you are being told the truth about the problem.
Many, many times, people do not tell the truth about things that go wrong.
It also depends on what the problem is you are trying to solve.
I'm sure you realise there are many problems, even in the field of engineering.
You would need to be more specific I'm afraid.
I must agree, you have to be more specific, however an algorithm to any problem can be applied:
1. Analyse the problem ( Data if applicable)
2. Make a clear on what you aims are and what you are trying to achieve.
3. Set up a model for investigation
4. Use an appropriate software (if applicable)
5. Interpret your result (is it realistic or not)
6. Make your conclusion/ recommendations
The key skill is to recognise that a problem exists and in what sphere of activity.Wide experience helps.
It depends on what type of problem it is. It helps to know something about the subject.
