Adaptive problem solving is best described as which?

• A. A person who looks for a few well-reasoned, well-thought-out solutions to problems, working within the system.
• B. A person who looks for as many solutions to the problem as they can possibly conceive.
• C. A person who methodically analyzes constraints and iterates a handful of options.
• D. A person who uses only established procedures and refuses to adapt.

Answer: (C)

Adaptive problem solving means understanding the real limits you must work within—budget, schedule, codes, site conditions—and then develop a small set of viable options, refining them through iteration as you learn from feedback. This approach is captured by focusing on methodically analyzing constraints and iterating a handful of options to fit those constraints. It emphasizes flexibility and continuous adjustment rather than sticking to a single rigid plan or endlessly proposing many unconstrained ideas.