Singapore mathematics syllabuses identify eleven heuristics which are applicable to problem solving at
the upper primary level (MOE, 2001a), and thirteen heuristics at lower secondary level (MOE, 2001b).
This paper discusses some of the general characteristics of problem solving heuristics. This paper will
also examines these heuristics, their functions and roles in mathematical problem solving and the
relationships they have with each other. According to their different characteristics, how and when they
can be used in mathematical problem solving, they can be classified into four categories:
“representation heuristics”, “simplification heuristics”, “pathway heuristics”, and “generic heuristics”.
Together they describe the process of mathematical problem solving.