In problem solving and decision making, what is a logical sequence of steps you should follow before making an important decision?

Introduction / Context:
Good decision making is essential in both personal life and professional settings. Employers often ask how you study a problem before making a decision to understand your analytical and planning skills. A structured approach reduces the risk of mistakes and shows that you can handle complexity without becoming confused or impulsive.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• You are dealing with an important problem that affects work outcomes.
• You have limited time and resources, so you must be systematic.
• Decisions involve choosing between different options with different consequences.
• The question asks for a general sequence, not for a specific mathematical formula.

Concept / Approach:
A widely accepted approach to problem solving involves several logical steps. First, you define the problem clearly, so that you know exactly what needs to be solved. Second, you gather relevant information, such as data, constraints, and stakeholder expectations. Third, you generate possible options or solutions rather than jumping to a single idea. Fourth, you evaluate these options by considering their pros and cons, risks, and feasibility. Finally, you choose the best available option and implement it, while remaining ready to monitor results and adjust if necessary. This structured sequence helps you move from confusion to clarity and from analysis to action.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Define the problem in specific terms, avoiding vague or overly broad statements.Step 2: Collect information that is directly related to the problem, such as facts, figures, and opinions from key people.Step 3: Brainstorm or list possible solutions without judging them too early.Step 4: Evaluate each solution based on criteria such as cost, time, impact, and risk, noting advantages and disadvantages.Step 5: Select the option that best meets your criteria and implement it, followed by monitoring and adjustment as needed.

Verification / Alternative check:
Management and problem solving textbooks describe similar models, such as the rational decision making model or the problem solving cycle. These models always start with problem identification and information gathering and then move through option generation and evaluation to choice and implementation. They do not recommend impulsive or random decisions. This alignment with established models supports option A as the correct logical sequence.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B suggests immediately choosing the first idea and ignoring other information, which can lead to poor decisions and shows lack of analysis. Option C relies solely on popularity of suggestions, which may not reflect quality or suitability for your situation. Option D proposes avoiding the problem until it is too late, which is the opposite of responsible decision making.

Common Pitfalls:
Common mistakes include rushing into solutions without clearly defining the problem, collecting too much irrelevant information and becoming paralysed, or failing to evaluate options systematically. Another pitfall is to make a decision and then refuse to adjust even when new data appears. A structured, step by step approach keeps you focused and makes it easier to explain your reasoning to others, which is valuable in team environments and leadership roles.

Final Answer:
The logical sequence is to clearly define the problem, gather relevant information, generate possible options, evaluate the pros and cons of each option, and then choose and implement the best solution.