---
name: hi-problem-solving
description: Apply systematic problem-solving techniques when stuck. Use for complexity spirals, innovation blocks, recurring patterns, assumption constraints, simplification cascades, scale uncertainty.
argument-hint: "[problem description]"
metadata:
  author: unknown
  version: "2.0.0"
---

# Problem-Solving Techniques

Systematic approaches for different types of stuck-ness. Each technique targets specific problem patterns.

## When to Use

Apply when encountering:

- **Complexity spiraling** - Multiple implementations, growing special cases
- **Innovation blocks** - Conventional solutions inadequate, need breakthrough
- **Stuck-ness** - Unsure which technique applies (see `references/when-stuck.md`)

## Core Techniques

| Technique                | Key Insight                                               | Red Flag                                |
| ------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------- |
| Simplification Cascades  | One insight eliminating multiple components               | "Just need to add one more case..."     |
| Collision-Zone Thinking  | Force unrelated concepts together for emergent properties | "I've tried everything in this domain"  |
| Meta-Pattern Recognition | Patterns in 3+ domains reveal universal principles        | "This problem is unique" (probably not) |
| Inversion Exercise       | Flip core assumptions to reveal hidden constraints        | "There's only one way to do this"       |
| Scale Game               | Test at extremes to expose fundamental truths             | "Should scale fine" (without testing)   |

## Application Process

1. **Identify stuck-type** - Match symptom to technique, load that reference, apply systematically

## References

- `references/when-stuck.md` - Dispatch flowchart and decision tree
- `references/simplification-cascades.md` - Cascade detection and extraction
- `references/collision-zone-thinking.md` - Metaphor collision process
- `references/meta-pattern-recognition.md` - Pattern abstraction techniques
- `references/inversion-exercise.md` - Assumption flipping methodology
- `references/scale-game.md` - Extreme testing procedures
- `references/attribution.md` - Source and adaptation notes