Problem-solving Interview Questions and Answers: Sample Interview MCQ & Answers

Question: What is the first step in the problem-solving process?

A) Implement a solution

B) Identify the problem

C) Analyze the situation

D) Seek assistance

Correct Answer: B) Identify the problem

Question: Which of the following is not a problem-solving technique?

A) Trial and error

B) Guessing randomly

C) Breaking the problem into smaller parts

D) Brainstorming

Correct Answer: B) Guessing randomly

Question: What does the acronym SMART stand for in goal setting?

A) Simple, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound

B) Specific, Meaningful, Achievable, Relevant, Timely

C) Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-bound

D) Strategic, Meaningful, Achievable, Relevant, Timely

Correct Answer: C) Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-bound

Question: What is a common approach to prioritizing tasks?

A) Completing tasks in alphabetical order

B) Tackling the easiest tasks first

C) Prioritizing based on urgency and importance

D) Doing tasks randomly

Correct Answer: C) Prioritizing based on urgency and importance

Question: What is root cause analysis?

A) Identifying the primary reason for a problem

B) Finding temporary solutions

C) Ignoring the problem and focusing on consequences

D) Avoiding responsibility

Correct Answer: A) Identifying the primary reason for a problem

Question: Which problem-solving technique involves generating a large number of ideas in a short span of time?

A) Root cause analysis

B) SWOT analysis

C) Brainstorming

D) Fishbone diagramming

Correct Answer: C) Brainstorming

Question: What does the acronym SWOT stand for?

A) Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats

B) Skills, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats

C) Strategies, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats

D) Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Trends

Correct Answer: A) Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats

Question: What does the Pareto Principle suggest?

A) 80% of outcomes result from 20% of causes

B) All problems can be solved with minimal effort

C) 20% of outcomes result from 80% of causes

D) Problems should be solved sequentially

Correct Answer: A) 80% of outcomes result from 20% of causes

Question: Which step of the problem-solving process involves testing potential solutions?

A) Implementing the solution

B) Analyzing the situation

C) Identifying the problem

D) Evaluating the outcome

Correct Answer: A) Implementing the solution

Question: What is the purpose of brainstorming?

A) To criticize others’ ideas

B) To generate creative solutions

C) To avoid problem-solving altogether

D) To follow predefined rules

Correct Answer: B) To generate creative solutions