The are slight differences between research and problem solving. Both entail investigations to establish facts. But problem solving requires facts that amount to solutions while research may be just findings.
In research, a problem is identified and a solution is sought. Whereas in problem solving, the problem itself is the focus of attention and the goal is to find a way to solve it. One key distinction between these two approaches is that research assumes there is a solution to be found, while problem solving does not assume this. In fact, there may not be a good or workable solution to a given problem. Therefore, the key difference between research and problem solving lies in their respective orientations: Problem solving starts with the recognition of a difficulty or obstacle that needs to be overcome; whereas research starts with an idea or question that needs to be explored.
it is not always problem solving
Research is about gaining new knowledge and understanding phenomena, while problem solving is about applying knowledge to find practical solutions to specific issues. nsda.portal.gov.bd/site/page/1595fdb5-339d-44f1-a7ea-b47476e1b1ee
Similarities are like something but not the sameSolution is a way of solving a problem
Top-down problem-solving starts with a general idea or goal and breaks it down into smaller steps to reach a solution. Bottom-up problem-solving involves analyzing specific details and gradually building up to a larger solution.
Anita C Hamilton has written: 'Research as a tool in problem solving at the community level' -- subject(s): Community centers, Problem solving, Research
I agree that research is typically more controlled than ordinary problem-solving. Research involves systematic methods, rigorous protocols, and careful data analysis to ensure validity and reliability. In contrast, ordinary problem-solving can often be more informal and spontaneous, relying on intuition and experience rather than structured methodologies. This difference highlights the importance of research in generating reliable knowledge compared to the more heuristic approaches used in everyday problem-solving.
Stating the hypothesis for solving a problem involves clearly defining the proposed explanation or solution that will be tested through research or experimentation. It is a statement that predicts the relationship between variables and guides the investigation process to determine if the hypothesis is supported or rejected.
Yes.
During my studies I was required to study for exams and construct assignments based on a research question. These activities provided me with solid research skills (assignments), interpretation skills (assignments and exams) and problem solving skills (assignments and exams).
The problem statement identifies the specific issue or challenge that the research aims to address, providing context and justification for the study. On the other hand, the purpose outlines the goals and objectives of the research, specifying what the researcher intends to achieve by conducting the study. Essentially, the problem statement highlights the problem, while the purpose indicates the aim of the research in solving that problem.
Data science and operations research (OR) share a problem-solving mindset but differ in focus and tools. Data science emphasizes analyzing large datasets using statistics, machine learning, and AI to uncover patterns and make predictions. Operations research, on the other hand, applies mathematical optimization, simulations, and decision theory to design the most efficient solutions under constraints. In application, data science answers “What is happening and what might happen next?”, while OR focuses on “What is the best decision to take?”. Together, they complement each other—for example, in logistics, data science forecasts demand, and OR optimizes delivery routes. Platforms like Uncodemy highlight how learning both fields equips professionals to tackle real-world, complex challenges effectively.