| Equation solving | Isolation, substitution, factoring | | Word problems | Define variables, write equations | | Physics | Draw diagram, identify forces/energies | | Proofs | Direct, contradiction, induction | | Optimization | Take derivative, find critical points |
| Plug back in | Substitute answer into original equation | | Units analysis | Check dimensions match expected result | | Estimate | Is the magnitude reasonable? | | Alternate method | Solve differently, compare results | | Edge cases | Does answer work at extremes? |
Hint 1: "What type of problem is this?" (Identification) Hint 2: "What formula relates these quantities?" (Direction) Hint 3: "Try isolating variable X first." (Specific guidance)
Step-by-step problem solving with detailed explanations. Uses structured approach (Identify, Plan, Execute, Verify) for math, physics, chemistry, and CS problems. Can provide hints before solutions. Use when solving academic problems, working through practice questions, or learning problem-solving methods. Triggers - solve problem, step by step, show work, explain solution, how to solve, problem help. Source: szeyu/vibe-study-skills.