What might help in overcoming a mental set during problem-solving?

Engaging in brainstorming sessions is beneficial for overcoming a mental set during problem-solving because it encourages a free-flowing exchange of ideas and allows participants to explore various perspectives. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and the generation of multiple solutions to a problem, rather than relying solely on past experiences or established methods. By sharing different viewpoints, individuals can break free from entrenched ways of thinking, which is crucial for overcoming a mental set—a cognitive tendency to approach problems in a fixed way based on previous experiences.

In contrast, following strict guidelines and rules tends to reinforce existing mental models, making it harder to think outside the box. Limiting oneself to past methodologies also ties problem-solving to previous experiences, which can trap individuals in a mental set rather than encouraging innovative thinking. Similarly, avoiding collaboration can inhibit the sharing of ideas and the collective brainstorming needed to generate novel approaches, ultimately limiting problem-solving effectiveness.