Final answer:
Problem-solving skills are critical thinking skills used to address questions or difficult situations, essential in physics, and highly valued by employers in many career paths.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, problem-solving skills are indeed the thinking skills used to answer a question or resolve a difficult situation. These skills are not only used for academic success in courses like physics but are also vital in everyday and professional life. For example, in physics, the ability to apply broad physical principles, usually represented by equations, to specific situations is a powerful form of knowledge. It surpasses memorization by enabling analytical thinking that can adapt to new and unexpected circumstances.
In the context of physics, problem-solving involves a specific set of steps. Although there is no one-size-fits-all method, general procedures help facilitate the process. Creativity and insight play a crucial role in this as well. Moreover, developing critical thinking abilities is beneficial for a wide range of career paths since employers value these skills highly. Being able to explain complex situations, solve problems, and rationalize seemingly irrational events lays the groundwork for diverse careers.