English Proficiency and Soft Skills (AEC)

Problem Solving Skills

Q.1 (B) Short-Question Answer.

1. What qualities should one possess to solve problems?
Adaptability, creativity, and analytical skills are necessary for effective problem-solving.
An effective problem-solver should evaluate situations, identify the reasons for the issue, and
come up with fresh solutions. One needs to collaborate and communicate with others while
respecting other points of view. As tasks may take multiple attempts, patience and determination
are essential. One can negotiate difficulty and come up with lasting answers by being active,
open-minded, and imaginative. In general, problem-solving needs a blend of analytical strength,
social skills, and a solution-focused mindset.

2. What are some of the steps involved in problem-solving?

Many important steps are involved in problem-solving. To fully understand the problem's
level, explain it clearly first. After that, gather important information and examine the situation
to identify what is causing the problem. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of various
solutions as you come up with them and assess their practicality. Decide on the best option of
action and create a solution. Put the strategy into action, keep an eye on things, and change as
needed. A successful resolution needs to be ensured at all stages of the process through effective
communication and collaboration.

3. What are the characteristics of effective-solution ?

Effective solutions are organized, focus on the problem's root causes, and provide long-
lasting effects. The solutions must be applicable, possible, and suited to the particular situation.
Flexibility and adaptability make sure that solutions can change as conditions change. Successful
problem-solving needs ongoing examination and change to make sure the solution is still
applicable and provides the outcomes you want.

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4. In the course of your life as an employee, you may find that something goes missing
from your custody. you are responsible for what has been lost. What would you do in
such a situation?
If this happened, I would take responsibility instantly and inform my supervisor or the
appropriate authority about the missing item. I would give an in-depth evaluation of the situation
and all relevant information to help solve the problem. Transparency and honesty are essential,
and I will happily help with any investigation. In order to prevent similar events in the future, I
would also actively evaluate and improve my management and security procedures, showing my
dedication to problem-solving, responsibility, and continuous improvement.

5. How does each of these help you in problem solving?

(A) Attending workshops and seminars to keep you updated with the development in
the area of your work.
(B) Reading literature relevant to your industry.
(C) Developing sharp observation skills.

(A) Keeping up with developments in your field by attending workshops and seminars
introduces you to new ideas. This information can help you develop a wider range of problem-
solving techniques, allowing you to approach problems from different points of view and with
creative solutions.

(B) Learning about industry developments, best practices, and case studies is improved by
reading appropriate literature. You gain useful knowledge from this information that you may use
to tackle challenging issues quickly and effectively.

(C) Acquiring great observational abilities enables you to carefully evaluate situations, spot
trends, and collect complete information. This ability helps in effectively identifying issues,
identifying underlying problems, and developing focused solutions that deal with root causes
rather than only symptoms.

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Q.2 Case Study or Real Life Experience from the Story.

● Problem Solving Skills in "The look-out man":

According to the dictionary a problem is a situation, person, or thing that needs to be dealt with
or solved. We cannot ignore problems. We have to find the best possible solutions to problems in
order to do well at work and live a good life.

Think about the life of the main character in the story, William Morris. He is 53 years old,
happily married and has a daughter who is also married. He has a reasonably good job and is
content with his work. But one day he faces a serious problem. An American who visits the shop
in which Morris works, attempts to lift a valuable ring with the help of a lady. Cleverly and
courageously, Morris is able to solve the problem and restores the ring to his employer.

What skills does he possess? He reads widely and observes people wherever he goes. He is
therefore able to develop his powers of observation and deduction. When the theft occurs, he
infers from the sequence of events, how the ring must have been taken away by the lady.

William Morris has both interpersonal and intellectual acumen. He has a good relationship with
his coworker, Miss Susskind and his employer, Mr Regnier. They understand each other and
cooperate effectively to solve the problem of theft.

There is much that we can learn from the story. If we apply our mind and heart to a problem we
can always find workable solutions. We need courage, calmness, and presence of mind to tackle
problems.

The protagonist William Morris of Nicolas Bentley's story "The Look-Out Man" serves
as an example of how to solve problems. Morris, in spite of his quiet behaviour, exhibits a good

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sense of detail and logical deduction, similar to a detective character. These analytical abilities
are crucial for solving the case of the missing ring in his antique jewellery store.

Morris starts by making observations and drawing conclusions. He pays close attention to how
others behave, noting the left-handedness of the American customer and the girl's odd behaviour,
for example. He makes note of the strange situations, such as why the American chose their store
and why the girl, who seemed unconnected, had previously visited an undertaker's shop.

Second, Morris maintains calm under stress. He keeps his cool when the ring vanishes and the
crisis worsens. This calmness enables him to think clearly and come up with a strategy for
recovering the stolen ring quietly.

Morris is an analytical thinker, thirdly. He makes connections between things that don't appear
related, like the girl's visit and the weird behaviour of the American. Along with finding the gum
with the ring imprint, he also makes an accusing connection.

Morris also exhibits strong communication skills. In order to avoid an unnecessary conflict, he
carefully talks with his colleagues, ordering Miss Susskind to bring Mr. Regnier, and then gently
questioning the girl.

Essentially, "The Look-Out Man" demonstrates how sharp observation, logic-based reasoning,
stress patience, critical thinking, and effective communication are essential problem-solving
skills and how they can be applied to effectively handle unexpected events. The stolen ring is
eventually found thanks to Morris's ability to connect seemingly unrelated information and
approach the matter systematically.

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● Real Life Experience:

You may have known or heard about an attempted theft in a jewellery showroom.Write a
paragraph in about 150 words on how the stolen jewellery was recovered.
In the wake of a daring attempted theft at a prestigious jewellery showroom, the recovery
of the stolen jewellery was nothing short of a captivating tale of teamwork and ingenuity. As the
news of the heist spread like wildfire, law enforcement agencies immediately sprang into action.
The investigation was marked by meticulous detective work. First, the authorities
scrutinised the CCTV footage, which captured the thieves in action. This crucial evidence
enabled them to identify the culprits and their getaway vehicle. The police then launched a
manhunt, spreading their net far and wide.
A breakthrough came when a vigilant citizen reported a suspicious-looking abandoned
vehicle in a remote area. Upon investigation, it was discovered to be the same vehicle used in the
heist. Inside, a stash of stolen jewellery was found concealed in a hidden compartment.
Further investigation led to the arrest of the thieves, who eventually confessed to their
involvement. The recovered jewellery was returned to the showroom, and the individuals
responsible for the audacious heist were brought to justice.
This success story underscored the importance of collaboration between law enforcement
and the public, demonstrating that, even in the face of a daring theft, the good guys can prevail
through determination and a relentless pursuit of justice.

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Q.3 Proverb on Problem-solving skills.

1. Every cloud has a silver lining.
The proverb "Every cloud has a silver lining" conveys the idea that even in difficult or
challenging situations, there is often a hidden opportunity or positive aspect. Just as clouds may
block the sun but can also bring much-needed rain for growth, adversity can lead to personal
growth, learning, or unexpected benefits. It encourages optimism and resilience, reminding us
that setbacks are not the end but can be stepping stones to something better. This proverb
encourages us to look beyond immediate difficulties and maintain hope for a brighter future.

2. God helps those who help themselves.

The proverb "God helps those who help themselves" emphasizes the importance of self-
reliance and personal initiative. It suggests that while faith and divine intervention are
significant, individuals must also take proactive steps and make efforts to solve their problems or
achieve their goals. In essence, it underscores the idea that waiting for external help alone may
not be sufficient; one must be willing to work diligently and take responsibility for their own
actions. This proverb serves as a reminder that a combination of faith and self-driven actions
often leads to more successful outcomes in life.

3. There is no use crying over spilt milk.

The expression "There is no use crying over spilled milk" advises against dwelling on
past mistakes or unfortunate events that cannot be undone. When milk is spilled, crying or
lamenting the loss won't bring it back. Instead, it encourages acceptance of the situation and a
focus on moving forward and preventing similar mishaps in the future. This proverb teaches us
to be pragmatic and not waste time or energy on regrets but to channel our efforts into addressing
present challenges and making better decisions going forward. It promotes resilience and a
forward-looking perspective in dealing with life's setbacks.

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4. Where there is a will there is a way.

The saying "Where there is a will, there's a way" underscores the power of determination
and a strong desire to overcome obstacles. It suggests that when individuals are truly committed
to achieving a goal or solving a problem, they will find the means and solutions necessary to
accomplish it, even in the face of adversity. This proverb is a testament to human resilience and
creativity. It encourages a positive mindset and the belief that with unwavering determination,
people can overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations, demonstrating that the strength of
one's will can pave the path to success.

5. Necessity is the mother of invention.

The saying "Necessity is the mother of invention" highlights the idea that when people
face pressing needs or challenges, they are compelled to find innovative solutions. It underscores
the human capacity for creativity and problem-solving, especially when driven by a fundamental
need. In times of scarcity or adversity, individuals are motivated to create new tools,
technologies, or methods to address those needs. This proverb celebrates human ingenuity and
adaptability, showing that some of the most groundbreaking inventions and advancements
throughout history have been born out of the necessity to overcome obstacles and fulfill essential
requirements.

6. The squeaky wheel gets the grease.

The saying "The squeaky wheel gets the grease" highlights the idea that those who are
vocal about their needs or concerns are more likely to receive attention and assistance. Just as a
squeaky, noisy wheel on a machine demands immediate lubrication, people who speak up and
advocate for themselves tend to garner support and solutions to their problems. This proverb
encourages assertiveness and proactive communication, suggesting that staying silent or passive
may result in being overlooked. It underscores the importance of voicing one's needs and
concerns to receive the help, attention, or solutions they require.

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7. When you see an arrow that is not going to miss you, throw out your chest and meet
it head on.
The phrase "When you see an arrow that is not going to miss you, throw out your chest
and meet it head on" embodies the spirit of courage and resilience in the face of adversity. It
advises confronting challenges and difficulties with unwavering determination rather than trying
to evade them. Instead of avoiding inevitable problems, it encourages individuals to confront
them boldly, maintaining their confidence and resolve. This approach reflects a mindset of facing
problems head-on, acknowledging that, sometimes, the best way to overcome obstacles is to
meet them with strength and courage rather than avoidance or fear.

8. There are no cakes without work.

The phrase "When you see an arrow that is not going to miss you, throw out your chest
and meet it head on" embodies the spirit of courage and resilience in the face of adversity. It
advises confronting challenges and difficulties with unwavering determination rather than trying
to evade them. Instead of avoiding inevitable problems, it encourages individuals to confront
them boldly, maintaining their confidence and resolve. This approach reflects a mindset of facing
problems head-on, acknowledging that, sometimes, the best way to overcome obstacles is to
meet them with strength and courage rather than avoidance or fear.

Q.4 Vocabulary and Grammar

● Vocabulary:

1. Publican - Innkeeper, bartender, host

2. Unobtrusively - Inconspicuously, subtly, discreetly
3. Antique - Vintage, old-fashioned, classic
4. Undertaker - Mortician, funeral director, embalmer
5. Urn - Vase, container, receptacle
6. Hearse - Funeral car, cortege, carriage
7. Disinterested - Impartial, unbiased, neutral

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8. Speculation - Conjecture, guesswork, hypothesis

9. Arty - Artistic, creative, imaginative
10. In a state - Distressed, agitated, perturbed
11. Turn-ups - Cuffs, fold-ups, trouser hems
12. Purloined - Stolen, pilfered, filched
13. Demur - Object, protest, disagree

● Grammar:

Prepositions:

1. Joe Larrabee came from the Middle West. He was a genius at painting. As a child
of six, he drew a picture of the town pump with an important citizen passing it in a
hurry. This effort was framed and hung in the drugstore window. At twenty he left
for New York with a flowing necktie and a small capital.

1. Although Mr MacMaster had lived in Amazonas for nearly sixty years, no one but
a few families of Shirinia Indians was aware of his existence.His house stood on a
small savanna, a little patch of sand and grass three miles or so wide, bounded
from all sides by forest. Mr McMaster owned a small herd of cattle, a plantation
of cassava and some banana and mango trees.

Phrasal Verbs:

1. Work of - To create or produce something, often referring to a piece of art or craftsmanship.

2. Part with - To give up or separate from something, typically reluctantly or with a sense of
loss.

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3. Make up - To reconcile after an argument, or to invent a story or excuse.

4. Slip off - To remove something quickly and quietly, or to leave a place unnoticed.
5. Warm up - To increase in temperature, or to prepare one's body for physical activity with
exercises.
6. Look for - To search or seek something or someone.
7. Look into - To investigate or examine closely.
8. Pull off - To successfully achieve or accomplish something, often despite challenges.
9. Stood down - To resign or step aside from a position or responsibility.
10. Pick up - To collect, gather, or acquire something, or to improve or recover.
11. Wrap up - To finish or conclude something, often referring to a meeting or task.
12. Hand over - To give or transfer something to another person or authority.
13. Dispose of - To get rid of or discard something.
14. Get rid of - To eliminate or remove something, often unwanted or unnecessary.

● Rewrite the following sentences by replacing the verbs in italics with suitable phrasal
verbs.

1. If you watch birds carefully, you can soon recognize different species.

2. The American could not decide which ring he wanted to buy.

3. Morris extended his hand to the American.

4. Morris kept the tray on the table.

5. The lady removed her glove.

6. The Sub-Inspector examined the case seriously. Ok into the case

7. At first, he could not understand anything about the case.

8. He stored the file safely.

9. He gave it to a special officer.

10. The thief, however, escaped.

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Answers:

1. If you pick out birds carefully, you can soon recognize different species.

2. The American could not make up his mind on which ring to buy.

3. Morris reached out his hand to the American.

4. Morris set down the tray on the table.

5. The lady took off her glove.

6. The Sub-Inspector looked into the case seriously.

7. At first, he couldn't make heads or tails of the case.

8. He secured away the file safely.

9. He handed it over to a special officer.

10. The thief, however, got away.

● Idiomatic Expressions used in the story, turn them into sentences.

After all, At any rate, all the same, first of all, at first glance

1. After all, I decided to go to the party despite my initial hesitation.

2. At any rate, I'll finish this report before the deadline.

3. The job was challenging, but all the same, I managed to complete it successfully.

4. First of all, Let's address the most pressing issue in our discussion.

5. The house seemed small at first glance, but upon closer inspection, it revealed its spacious
interior.

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