PROBLEM SOLVING 101 By Ken Watanabe

As AI tools make information more accessible than ever, educators, employers and researchers are increasingly focused on a different challenge: helping people develop the ability to analyse problems, think independently and make informed decisions.

Originally developed for Japanese schoolchildren, Problem Solving 101 has become one of the most accessible introductions to structured problem-solving. Drawing on principles used in strategy consulting and education, Ken Watanabe translates complex thinking processes into practical tools that readers can apply immediately.

Rather than focusing on intelligence, expertise or academic achievement, Ken Watanabe argues that effective problem-solving is a learnable skill. Through illustrations, real-world examples and step-by-step exercises, he demonstrates how readers can identify root causes, organise information, evaluate alternatives and develop practical solutions.

Among the book’s most influential concepts is the use of Logic Trees — a framework for breaking complex problems into manageable components and uncovering multiple pathways to a solution. Combined with Watanabe’s emphasis on observation, curiosity and hypothesis-based thinking, these tools have made the book a valuable resource for students, educators, professionals and lifelong learners.

WHY THIS BOOK MATTERS NOW

• Analytical thinking continues to rank among the most in-demand workplace skills globally.
• As AI increasingly provides answers, the ability to frame problems, evaluate information and exercise judgement is becoming more valuable.
• Educators worldwide are placing greater emphasis on critical thinking, adaptability and problem-solving rather than memorisation alone.
• The book offers practical tools that can be applied immediately in education, work, leadership and everyday decision-making.

EARLY PRAISE

“If everyone made decisions like Ken Watanabe, the world would be a better place.” — Seth Godin, author of Tribes

“Problem Solving 101 teaches us to recognize the common elements in the decisions we face every day, and how to think carefully about them. It offers tricks and tips for every age.” — Dan Ariely, bestselling author of Predictably Irrational

“This is an excellent primer on problem solving.” — Lowell Bryan, author of Mobilizing Minds

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ken Watanabe grew up bilingual in Japan and studied in the United States at Yale University and Harvard Business School. He is a former McKinsey consultant, educator and bestselling author. After working in strategy consulting, he turned his attention to education, developing practical frameworks to help young people learn critical thinking and problem-solving skills. He is currently the Founder and CEO of Delta Studio, an education, entertainment and media company.