It is useful to develop a framework to think about the processes involved in mathematics
problem solving. Most formulations of a problem solving framework in U. S. textbooks
attribute some relationship to Polya's (26) problem solving stages. However, it is
important to note that Polya's "stages" were more flexible than the "steps" often
delineated in textbooks. These stages were described as understanding the problem,
making a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back.