The XY problem

Let’s discuss the XY problem.

The XY problem arises when you ask about your attempted solution rather than your actual problem. This leads to enormous amounts of wasted time and energy, both for those seeking help and those providing it.

Here’s how it typically unfolds:

1. User wants to do X.
2. User doesn’t know how to do X, but thinks they can fumble their way to a solution if they can just manage to do Y.
3. User doesn’t know how to do Y either.
4. User asks for help with Y.
5. Others try to help the user with Y, but are confused because Y seems like a strange problem to want to solve.
6. After much interaction and wasted time, it finally becomes clear that the user really wants help with X, and that Y wasn’t even a suitable solution for X.

The problem occurs when people get stuck on what they believe is the solution and are unable to step back and explain the issue in full.

Examples of the XY Problem:

Example 1:

• User’s Actual Problem (X): They need to extract data from a PDF.
• User’s Attempted Solution (Y): They ask for help converting a PDF to an image.
• Miscommunication: Helpers provide various methods to convert PDFs to images, but the user still can’t extract the data they need.
• Resolution: Once the actual problem is identified, helpers suggest using a PDF data extraction tool.

Example 2:

• User’s Actual Problem (X): They want to automate a repetitive task in Excel.
• User’s Attempted Solution (Y): They ask for help writing a complex formula.
• Miscommunication: Helpers offer different formulas, but the task remains cumbersome.
• Resolution: When the real need is understood, helpers recommend using a macro or a script to automate the task.

Always try to clearly articulate your actual problem (X) rather than focusing on your attempted solution (Y). This approach saves time and leads to more effective problem-solving.