Have you ever been stumped by a math puzzle or problem?

Mathematician James Tanton understands that feeling, and he's designed an entire course to help you attack those seemingly impossible challenges!

I've mentioned James Tanton before (see previous mentions here), especially in the context of his Curriculum Inspirations video puzzles.

On the main Curriculum Inspirations page, he's included a useful list of 10 strategies for attacking such problems. They're taught as essays, such as this one for Strategy #1: Engage in Successful Flailing.

Recently, however, James Tanton has begun creating more lively video explanations of each strategy. Much of the advice can also apply to many real-world problems, as well. Check them out below:

Strategy #1: Engage in Successful Flailing


Strategy #2: Do Something


Strategy #3: Engage in Wishful Thinking


Strategy #4: Draw a Picture


Strategy #5: Solve a Smaller Version of the Same Problem


Strategy #6: Eliminate Incorrect Choices


Strategy #7: Perseverance is Key


Strategy #8: Second-Guess the Author


Strategy #9: Avoid Hard Work


Strategy #10: Go to Extremes