Success starts with the first step: insight problem-solving stages and their underlying cognitive strategies

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study models the underlying cognitive processes of insight, gained after problem solvers encounter an impasse, by dividing the problem-solving process into two stages: initial search for solutions (pre-impasse) and problem-representation restructuring (from impasse to solution). Shorter initial searches were found to be associated with longer restructuring, implying that although the former leads to impasse, it still impacts restructuring and success. This time pattern was associated with faster solutions, higher success rates, and reasoning and convergent thinking-skills. Accordingly, two successful insight problem-solving modes were identified: Some solvers initially apply typical linear-analytic strategies and switch to multi-directional thinking (dissociative strategy) upon impasse. After producing multiple ideas, they associatively combine several of them through insightful solutions (convergent strategy); others apply multi-directional thinking, from the initial search through restructuring. The latter mode prolongs the initial search and, ultimately, the entire solving process. Hence, standard linear-analytic strategies are more effective in insight-based problem solving.