HNS M7: Apply Problem Solving Techniques

1. What is the first step in problem solving?

A. Implement the solution B. Identify and define the problem C. Evaluate possible options D. Document the process

2. Which tool is often used to find the root cause of a problem?

A. Brainstorming B. Gantt chart C. SWOT analysis D. Fishbone diagram (Ishikawa)

3. Why is data collection important in problem solving?

A. To fill reports B. To delay action C. To make decisions based on facts D. To satisfy management only

4. Which technique involves asking “Why?” multiple times to get to the root cause?

A. 5 Whys technique B. Flowcharting C. Benchmarking D. Mind mapping

5. What is brainstorming mainly used for?

A. Narrowing down solutions immediately B. Generating many ideas without judgment C. Testing solutions D. Documenting final decisions

6. Which of these is a quantitative problem-solving tool?

A. Interviews B. Surveys with measurable results C. Brainstorming D. Role-play sessions

7. Why is involving stakeholders in problem solving important?

A. They may have valuable input and support implementation B. It reduces the number of people working C. It avoids documentation D. It guarantees faster results

8. What does a SWOT analysis examine?

A. Work schedules and overtime tracking B. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats C. Stock levels and inventory flow D. Staff welfare and safety

9. Which step comes after identifying possible solutions?

A. Implement the first idea B. Evaluate each solution’s feasibility C. Collect more unrelated data D. Ignore stakeholder input

10. In problem solving, what does “criteria” refer to?

A. The list of tools to use B. Standards to judge possible solutions C. The steps of a project plan D. The expected cost of materials

11. Why create an action plan for a chosen solution?

A. To delay implementation B. To outline steps, resources, and timelines C. To create more paperwork D. To impress management only

12. Which of these is an example of a constraint in problem solving?

A. Unlimited budget B. Limited skilled personnel C. Strong stakeholder support D. Adequate time for testing

13. The purpose of evaluating a solution after implementation is to:

A. Celebrate the success B. Ensure it solves the problem effectively C. Start a new project immediately D. Avoid feedback

14. Which diagram is useful for mapping out a process to identify issues?

A. Gantt chart B. Flowchart C. Histogram D. Pie chart

15. In problem solving, what is a “root cause”?

A. The first symptom noticed B. The underlying reason the problem occurs C. The result of the problem D. The easiest issue to fix

16. Which method compares performance against best practices or leaders?

A. Benchmarking B. Flowcharting C. Brainstorming D. Pareto analysis

17. A Pareto chart is based on the principle that:

A. 50% of problems cause 50% of effects B. 80% of problems come from 20% of causes C. All causes have equal impact D. 90% of results are predictable

18. Why is time management important in problem solving?

A. To ensure timely solution development and implementation B. To reduce the number of meetings C. To avoid assigning responsibilities D. To skip documentation

19. Which of these is an example of qualitative data collection?

A. Interview feedback B. Sensor readings C. Financial reports D. Production counts

20. What is the purpose of a problem statement?

A. To summarize the problem clearly for all stakeholders B. To provide a solution immediately C. To skip analysis D. To replace documentation

21. Which tool helps visualize timelines for problem-solving activities?

A. Flowchart B. Gantt chart C. Ishikawa diagram D. Histogram

22. Why is it important to monitor solution implementation?

A. To identify issues early and adjust B. To increase paperwork C. To avoid reporting results D. To skip evaluation

23. When is a contingency plan used?

A. When the primary solution fails or risks occur B. When there is no problem C. When the budget is unlimited D. When training staff only

24. Which method visually groups similar ideas during analysis?

A. Affinity diagram B. Flowchart C. Pareto chart D. SWOT analysis

25. Why is documenting the problem-solving process important?

A. For learning, accountability, and future reference B. To waste resources C. To fill storage space D. To satisfy curiosity

HNS Exam: Problem-Solving Techniques

Exam Results