GUIDED SCHOLAR RESOURCE SERIES | GRADES 9–12 | PRESENTATIONS

A recommendation without visible analysis is an assertion. The quality of the thinking is the product.

THE PROBLEM

Students treat problem-solving presentations as persuasive ones: choose a solution, then argue for it. The result is a recommendation without a defensible process. A problem-solving presentation does not ask the audience to adopt a predetermined conclusion. It shows them how the problem was analyzed, what options were considered, and how the recommendation was reached. The thinking is the product, not just the answer.

THE STRUCTURE

Problem definition: Current state, desired state, and the gap between them. Who is affected, to what extent, and why the problem has not already been solved. A one-sentence problem statement is not a problem definition.

Criteria and constraints: Criteria are the standards the solution must meet. Constraints are the conditions the solution must work within. Both are established before options are evaluated. Students who skip this zone cannot defend their recommendation against a challenge.

Options analysis: Each option evaluated against the stated criteria and constraints. A comparison matrix is the standard format: options across the top, criteria down the side, assessments in the cells.

Recommendation: The option that best satisfies the criteria, with the tradeoffs it involves named explicitly. A recommendation without tradeoffs is a sales pitch.

Next steps: Who decides, by when, and what the first action is.

WHAT MAKES A STRONG OPTIONS ANALYSIS SLIDE

Comparison matrix over summary descriptions. A matrix that evaluates each option against stated criteria makes the evaluation transparent. Students who resist it are protecting a predetermined conclusion.

Consistent evaluative framework. If Option A’s analysis leads with cost, Option B’s analysis must also lead with cost. Inconsistent frameworks signal that the evaluation was not rigorous.

Specific findings, not vague assessments. “Option B meets four of five criteria but exceeds the budget constraint by 15%” communicates a finding. “Option B has some advantages” communicates nothing.

BULLET FORMATTING IN PROBLEM-SOLVING PRESENTATIONS

Analytical bullets state findings. Each bullet summarizes a finding, identifies a tradeoff, or names a criterion met or not met.

Parallel structure is an evaluative requirement. In options analysis slides, parallel structure signals that evaluation was consistent across all options.

Acknowledge tradeoffs explicitly. A deck with no bullets acknowledging tradeoffs has not been analyzed — it has been advocated.

VISUAL SELECTION FOR PROBLEM-SOLVING PRESENTATIONS

Problem definition: Charts or diagrams that show the gap between current and desired state. Quantified where possible.

Criteria and constraints: A clear table the audience can reference throughout the presentation as options are evaluated.

Options analysis: Comparison matrix. The visual should show the analysis, not decorate the topic.

Recommendation: A visual showing the recommended option in its implemented state, or a projection of outcomes if implemented.