---
title: "Problem-solving semantics"
author: "Stan Voo"
url: https://www.99rabbits.com/blog/pss
published: 2024-11-28
summary: "Problem-solving semantics labels each part of a hard problem in your notes as a question, solution, issue or result. A worked example from my Logseq journal."
---

# Problem-solving semantics

Problem-solving semantics is a structured approach to tackling complex issues. It's like creating a blueprint for each problem you face. You start by clearly defining the problem in various ways — through hypotheses, questions, claims. Then you explore potential solutions and their limitations, evaluate the results, and use examples and use cases to support your approach.

**Issue:** Complex problems are difficult to keep track of. Writing helps in solving complex problems. A single issue can have multiple facets, and each solution can come with its pros and cons. After experimenting with various solutions, it's crucial to draw conclusions and compare the results.

**Solution:** Writing down the problem can significantly help in finding the best solution. The key here is to "think on paper", which is especially useful for intricate issues. Tools like Logseq can be incredibly helpful here. You can use page links in Logseq as a form of problem-solving semantics to decompose the problem. This semantic layer helps you visually distinguish the components of the problem and makes solutions easier to evaluate.

Here's what it looks like:

![](https://www.99rabbits.com/blog/pss-pss-example.webp)