Problem/Solution Frame What is the problem?

You want to go to the football game tonight, but your car is out of gas and you're broke.

What is a possible solution?

Borrow money from your parents.

What is another possible solution?

Hitch a ride with a friend who's going to the game.

What are the likely results of the first solution?

Your parents will probably loan you the money, but it might come with another reminder about budgeting your money; or worse yet, they may encourage you to get a job! Yet, if you take the money, you can come and go when you want. You may even be able to get your new friend in the geography class to ride with you.

What are the likely results of the second solution? (If you have come up with more than two solutions, analyze these, too.)

You could go to the game without having to either owe money or (Groan!) listen to your parents' comments, however justified. Still, you wouldn't have as much freedom at the game, and you'd also owe your friend a ride in the future.

What is the best solution?

Hitching a ride with a friend.

Why did you choose the solution you did?

Although neither solution is perfect, the second solution was best. There won't be any debt, no frowns from parents, and you and your friend always have fun together.