Mathematical Problem Solving provides information pertinent to the nature of mathematical thinking at any level. This book provides a framework for the analysis of complex problem-solving behavior. Organized into two parts encompassing 10 chapters, this book begins with an overview of the four qualitatively different aspects of complex intellectual activity, namely, cognitive resources, heuristics, control, and belief systems. This text then presents a series of empirical investigations that flesh out the analytical framework. Other chapters consider the ways that competent problem solvers make the most of the knowledge at their disposal. This book discusses as well the kind s of learning that can result from carefully designed instruction. The final chapter deals with observations made in typical high school classrooms, which serve to indicate some of the sources of students' mathematical behavior. This book is a valuable resource for mathematicians and mathematics teachers. Readers who are interested in higher-order thinking skills in any domain will also find this book useful.