You're struggling to evaluate your problem-solving skills. How can you determine your true abilities?

1 Identify your problem-solving style

Everyone has a preferred way of approaching problems, based on their personality, experience, and context. Some people are more analytical, logical, and systematic, while others are more creative, intuitive, and flexible. Some people prefer to work independently, while others like to collaborate and communicate. Some people focus on the big picture, while others pay attention to the details. Knowing your problem-solving style can help you understand your strengths and weaknesses, and how you can improve your skills. To identify your problem-solving style, you can use tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), the Kirton Adaption-Innovation Inventory (KAI), or the Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument (HBDI).

2 Review your past performance

One of the best ways to evaluate your problem-solving skills is to look back at your past performance and achievements. Think of some specific examples of problems that you solved or contributed to solving in your previous or current roles. How did you define the problem, gather information, generate alternatives, evaluate options, implement solutions, and monitor results? What were the outcomes and impacts of your problem-solving efforts? How did you overcome any challenges or obstacles? How did you learn from your mistakes or failures? How did you use feedback to improve your skills? By reviewing your past performance, you can identify your areas of improvement and highlight your accomplishments.

3 Seek feedback from others

Another way to evaluate your problem-solving skills is to seek feedback from others who have observed or worked with you on problem-solving tasks. These can include your manager, colleagues, customers, mentors, or coaches. Ask them to rate your problem-solving skills on a scale of 1 to 10, and to provide specific examples of how you demonstrated or applied your skills. Ask them to share what they think are your strengths and weaknesses, and what they suggest you can do to improve your skills. Be open and receptive to their feedback, and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

4 Take online assessments

A third way to evaluate your problem-solving skills is to take online assessments that measure your problem-solving abilities and potential. There are many online tests and quizzes that can help you assess your problem-solving skills, such as the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal, the Wonderlic Cognitive Ability Test, or the Problem Solving Inventory. These assessments can help you gauge your level of problem-solving competence, confidence, and style. They can also provide you with feedback and recommendations on how to improve your skills. However, keep in mind that these assessments are not definitive or comprehensive, and that they may have limitations and biases. Use them as a supplement, not a substitute, for your own self-evaluation and feedback from others.