The original version of this story appeared in Quanta Magazine. For computer scientists, solving problems is a bit like mountaineering. First they must choose a problem to solve—akin to identifying a ...

Researchers have developed an algorithm that enhances the ability of a quantum computer to more efficiently find the best solution for complicated problems. Tohoku University researchers have ...

A group of computer gamers are making habit of outshining scientists at their own game. Most of them have no scientific background, but they have a track record of cracking tough scientific puzzles, ...

Strategic problem solving is a critical business skill, for both management and front-line workers. For management, a large portion of strategic problem solving involves predicting problems that ...

Computers are good at answering questions. What’s the shortest route from my house to Area 51? Is 8,675,309 a prime number? How many teaspoons in a tablespoon? For questions like these, they’ve got ...

We have met our match at the genteel pastime of jigsaw puzzles. It seems an algorithm can now whiz through 10,000 pieces in 24 hours. The speedy solver could also help piece together shredded ...