Marcus assigns deadlines to tasks he needs to complete to address his problem. Which problem-solving stage does this reflect?

The correct choice reflects the problem-solving stage where Marcus develops a structured approach to tackle his tasks. By assigning deadlines to the tasks he needs to complete, he is establishing a clear plan of action. This planning phase is crucial because it involves breaking the problem down into manageable steps and setting timelines for accomplishing each task. The development of an action plan is essential for guiding him through the execution of the solution effectively, ensuring that he remains organized and on track while addressing the problem.

In contrast, solution generation pertains to brainstorming and identifying potential solutions, which does not involve setting specific timelines. Monitoring progress focuses on tracking the advancement towards the goal and assessing whether the strategies implemented are effective, which occurs after the action plan has been laid out. Evaluating solutions involves assessing the effectiveness of the chosen solution after it has been applied, rather than organizing the means to achieve it initially. Thus, this context emphasizes the importance of creating an action plan as a fundamental stage in effective problem-solving.