Assessment of the Research on Problem Solving and Insight

Abstract

This literature review explores the extent of research on problem solving and insight, as well as the roles of conscious and unconscious processes.  This paper looks at the research on the structure of how insight develops and in general the problem solving process.  Next, the type of problems are examined as to which type of problem solving task work best using either conscious or unconscious processes.  Then, this paper covers research on probabilistic reasoning as this may be an unconscious process and the role of memory and sleep may have in problem solving and insight.  To conclude, there are areas that still need further research but there is strong evidence of an integral role of unconsciousness processes in problem solving.