Which term describes the tendency to approach problems in a single way that has been successful in the past?

• A. Divergent thinking
• B. Insight
• C. Mental set
• D. Prototype

Answer: (C)

The main concept here is mental set—the tendency to approach problems with the same method that has worked in the past. This mindset can be efficient for familiar problems because it relies on a tried-and-true strategy, but it can also trap you, making it hard to notice newer or different approaches when circumstances change. That’s exactly what this term captures: sticking to a single, previously successful way to solve problems.

Divergent thinking, by contrast, involves generating many possible solutions rather than sticking to one approach. Insight refers to a sudden moment of understanding or a breakthrough. A prototype is a typical example used to categorize or represent a concept. So the described tendency aligns with mental set because it’s about continuing to apply a known method rather than adapting to a new problem.