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Review
"There is nothing else like this book out there. Nobody who deals with problems where numbers matter — and everybody in today’s world really needs to — should be without it." —John P. Holdren, past president, American Association for the Advancement of Science, from the Foreword
"A lively, well-written, attractively packaged book on the art of critical thinking." —Skeptical Inquirer
"Dr. Koomey's book deserves to be widely read and shared, especially by those who take seriously the fragile yet critical role of an informed citizenry in increasingly complex democratic societies." —Professor Michael Maniates, Allegheny College
Book Description
Full of tools, tricks, and tips for solving problems in the real world, this book serves as an ideal training manual for those who are new to or intimidated by quantitative analysis and acts as an excellent refresher for those who have more experience but want to improve the quality of their data, the clarity of their graphics, and the cogency of their arguments. In addition to containing numerous updates to the contents—references, URLs, and reading lists—this second edition includes a new foreword, revised chapters, and an epilogue. Mastering the art of problem solving takes more than proficiency with basic calculations; it requires understanding how people use information, recognizing the importance of ideology, learning the art of storytelling, and acknowledging the important distinction between facts and values. Intended for executives, professors, and students, this guide addresses these and other essential skills.
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Most helpful customer reviews
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful
3.0 out of 5 stars
not for the technically minded,
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This review is from: Turning Numbers into Knowledge: Mastering the Art of Problem Solving (Hardcover)
This is an entertaining and well written book on some of the do's and don'ts of data analysis. To quote from Dr. Beers review below, "The main emphasis is on the art of data interpretation." Indeed there are useful tools here for performing sanity checks and for asking critical questions about all sorts of data collections. ... The examples are, at best, sketchy and few in number. The anectodes are amusing but not terribly informative. I would have much preferred more concrete examples and further discussion on some technical matters. ....
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Among the most influential books I've read,
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This review is from: Turning Numbers into Knowledge: Mastering the Art of Problem Solving (Hardcover)
I was expecting a book about quantitative methods and advanced problem solving techniques. What I got, instead, was a book that didn't even discuss numbers until page 111 of a 221 page book, and it was lite on problem solving techniques. Although it was not what I expected it turned out to be one of those rare books that deeply influences and provides fresh perspectives. The book led me on a journey that broke the process of critical thinking into manageable steps. Among the things I learned were:* Examine key factors, such as information, attention and action within the context of a cycle of actions that begins with goals, and moves through execution, how events in the external world influence the meeting of those goals, an evaluation and refinement of goals. Then the process starts anew. * Structured methods for getting organized. The techniques given are simple, yet powerful.How to collect and critically analyze data and information, common fallacies and how to spot them. Two of my favorite parts that reinforce these are then single-page chart titled "What Scientists Say, and What They Mean", and Chapter 20 (Uncertainty Principle and the Mass Media). * The straightforward process of numerical analysis, using relatively simple math techniques to make sense of numbers and turn them into knowledge, is priceless. What makes this part of the book valuable is that the author integrates the preceding chapters that lead you to a critical thinking mindset with common sense and techniques that are within the grasp of high school students. It looks easy, but is testimony to the author's exceptional ability to communicate and inspire. Overall this book is one of my personal favorites and one that I recommend to colleagues. Another book that complements this one nicely is Systems Thinking: Managing Chaos and Complexity by Jamshid Gharajedaghi.
5.0 out of 5 stars
For Your Analytic Mind,
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This review is from: Turning Numbers into Knowledge: Mastering the Art of Problem Solving (Paperback)
I thought this book would be about quantitative approaches to solving problems. However, the author brilliantly weaved in a lot of common sense and practical advice on how to approach your professional and/or vocational endeavors. The chapter titles alone tells the story;1. Don't be intimidated by anyone 2. Be a critical thinker 3. Don't confuse what's countable with what really counts 4. Get Organized 5. Question Authority 6. Dig into the numbers 7. Focus on the essential 8. Document, document, document 9. Use the internet 10. Remember that others don't care as much about your work as you do 11. Synthesis follows Analysis The book is a great tool for analysts and anyone of influence. Jonathan Koomey, truly walks you through the steps for mastering the art of problem solving.
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