ABSTRACT
One o f the major preconditions for solving any problem is its precise definition. For example, it is rare that an auto mechanic, when faced with a car that will not start, will begin by replacing the engine. Rather, a diagnosis would begin by an assessment o f the various components known to be related to the starting behavior o f cars (the presence or absence o f gasoline, the presence or absence o f electrical power, etc.). The logic used by mechanics generally consists o f a combination o f inductive and deductive reasoning that leads to specific guesses, or hypotheses, concerning the origin of the problem. Each o f these hypoth eses is, in turn, tested (using the appropriate tools and measurement devices) until the problem has been isolated. Once the nature o f the problem is identified, there is a specific set o f decision rules and pro cedures that can be used to rectify the malfunction.
