Mental set

Mental set means our habit of using the same way of thinking or solving a problem because it worked before. We become used to one method and may not notice a new, easier method. For example, if you always solve a maths problem using one formula, you may keep using it even when another simple method would work better.

The idea is closely linked with Abraham Luchins, a psychologist who studied problem-solving. In his famous water-jar experiment, people first solved problems using a particular method. Later, they continued using the same method even when a much simpler method was available. This showed that our past experience can sometimes help us solve problems, but it can also make us stuck.