Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Flashcards
7 cards from real CTE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Problem-Solving and Decision-Making flashcards as text
In technical project management, a 'decision tree' is most useful for:
Answer: Visualizing outcomes and probabilities of sequential decisions
Decision trees map possible choices, outcomes, and their probabilities to support structured analysis of sequential decisions.
A team is divided equally on two technical solutions. What is the most professional way to break the deadlock?
Answer: Use objective criteria such as data, standards, or a pilot test to evaluate options
Objective criteria, data, or controlled tests provide a neutral basis for resolving disagreements without relying on hierarchy or chance.
What does 'parallel processing' mean in the context of problem-solving?
Answer: Working on multiple independent sub-problems at the same time
Parallel processing in problem-solving means addressing multiple independent components of a problem simultaneously to save time.
Which of the following is an example of a 'constraint' in technical decision-making?
Answer: A budget limit that cannot be exceeded regardless of the solution chosen
A constraint is a fixed boundary condition — such as a hard budget limit — that restricts which solutions are viable.
After implementing a solution, a CTE professional should perform a 'post-implementation review' primarily to:
Answer: Document the fix and capture lessons learned for future use
Post-implementation reviews capture lessons learned and best practices, improving future problem-solving performance.
The 'PDCA cycle' (Plan-Do-Check-Act) is best described as:
Answer: An iterative four-step model for continuous problem-solving and improvement
PDCA is a cyclical model where each pass through the four steps drives incremental improvement in processes and solutions.
A technician identifies three possible causes for a system failure. To isolate the actual cause, the BEST approach is to:
Answer: Test and eliminate each cause one at a time in a controlled manner
Isolating variables by testing one potential cause at a time prevents confusion and ensures the true root cause is identified.