This is more closely tailored to Physics problems, but can be applied with equal usefullness to a multitude of other situations.

NB: This is a guide on how to solve an academic problem, not on how to solve the problem of a flat tyre! :)

1. Understand the Problem:
   Make sure you understand all aspects of the problem to be tackled, and exactly what is being asked of you, before you begin.
2. Hunt:
   Hunt for the connection between known and unknown.
   • Consider past problems
   • Consider the laws
   • Make new laws
3. Plan:
   Every operation (military or otherwise) requires an action plan! Take a step back and consider how you are going to go about solving your problem!
4. Execute:
   Execute your plan to the letter, with military precision, checking each step of the way.
5. Examine:
   Examine the outcome of your operation!
   • Is it what you expected?
   • Is it reasonable?
   • Does it have any surprising implications?
6. Marvel:
   Marvel at your efficiently deduced solution for a short period of time before checking it and realising it is incorrect.
7. Repeat:
   Repeat as necessary until you have reached a solution which matches that in the back of the book.
8. Alternatively:
   Alternatively, at any stage you can take the working result, add/subtract 63, multiply by the number you first thought of, square this product, then add or subtract a number until your answer concurrs with that in the back of the book. This method is very convenient but often fails during exams -- The silly examiners usually forget to include the answers in the back of the question paper.