problem-solving skills

Meaning

This term refers to the capacity to identify issues, analyze them from different perspectives, and implement effective solutions. It is a key soft skill discussed in both academic evaluation and job descriptions, suggesting resourcefulness and logical reasoning.

Examples

• Group projects are a great way for students to build their problem-solving skills.

  Group projects are a great way for students to build their problem-solving skills.

• The math competition tested the students' creative problem-solving skills.

  The math competition tested the students' creative problem-solving skills.

• He highlighted his problem-solving skills on his resume to stand out to employers.

  He highlighted his problem-solving skills on his resume to stand out to employers.

• Developing problem-solving skills is just as important as memorizing academic facts.

  Developing problem-solving skills is just as important as memorizing academic facts.

• The engineering department focuses heavily on practical problem-solving skills.

  The engineering department focuses heavily on practical problem-solving skills.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I want to improve my problem-solve skills.

  ✓ I want to improve my problem-solving skills.

  You must use the gerund form 'problem-solving' as a compound modifier before the noun 'skills'.

• ✗ She has good skills of solving problems.

  ✓ She has good problem-solving skills.

  While grammatically understandable, 'skills of solving problems' is wordy and unnatural. The compound noun 'problem-solving skills' is the standard academic and professional collocation.

Related Expressions

Practice

• Employers often look for candidates with excellent ___ to handle unexpected challenges.

  💡 The ability to find solutions to issues

  Show answer

  problem-solving skills

• The science fair encourages students to apply their ___ to real-world issues.

  💡 Skills used to resolve difficulties

  Show answer

  problem-solving skills