The main barrier to the solution of the nine-dot problem is that people tend to
A) rely on algorithms rather than heuristics in working toward a solution.
B) apply their prior knowledge in inappropriate or inefficient ways.
C) structure the problem by imposing unnecessary boundaries.
D) choose inappropriate heuristics when attempting to reduce the problem to a more manageable size.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The main barrier to solving the nine-dot problem is that people impose unnecessary boundaries on the problem by assuming that they must stay within the confines of the nine dots. This limits their ability to think creatively and consider solutions that extend beyond the perceived boundaries. The other answer choices may also play a role in the difficulty of solving the problem, but they are not the main barrier.

The Main Barrier to the Solution of the Nine-Dot Problem