Kent and Kirsten are both trying to reduce their consumer debt. Kent decides to pay the highest-interest debts first and freeze credit-card spending. Kirsten simply pays her largest debt first, because this would seem to be the fastest way to move her debt as close to zero as possible. Kent's plan reflects the problem-solving strategy of _____. Kirsten's method illustrates the strategy of _____.
A)forming subgoals; trial and error
B)means-end analysis; forming subgoals
C)trial and error; means-end analysis
D)forming subgoals; means-end analysis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kent's plan reflects the problem-solving strategy of forming subgoals, where he breaks down his overall goal of reducing consumer debt into smaller subgoals (paying highest-interest debts first) to make it more achievable. Kirsten's method illustrates the strategy of means-end analysis, where she identifies the most efficient way to reach her ultimate goal (paying off the largest debt) without any subgoals or trial-and-error. Therefore, the best choice is D - forming subgoals and means-end analysis.

Kent and Kirsten Are Both Trying to Reduce Their Consumer