Ivan is a consultant who has been asked to solve a technical problem for an electronics firm. When he arrives at the firm, he finds that the problem is exactly like a problem he has solved before. The first time he solved the problem it took him 37 hours. This time it takes him 26 hours. The most likely reason for his faster solution this time is ________.
A) mental set
B) creating subgoals
C) hill-climbing
D) means-end analysis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ivan's faster solution is likely due to a mental set, which is the tendency to approach problems using a mindset that has worked previously. Having solved a similar problem before, he can apply the same strategies more efficiently.

Ivan Is a Consultant Who Has Been Asked to Solve