Boris's checklist is just a slightly modified version of your classic mathematics or engineering problem solving steps. 1. Write down your problem statement.

Boris's checklist is just a slightly modified version of your classic mathematics or engineering problem solving steps. 1. Write down your problem statement. 2. State your knowns, unknowns, and assumptions. 3. Solve. (Step 2 is also further enhanced by performing first principles reasoning, collecting data for evidence, and using reasonable estimates where data is absent.) I think Boris's list is pretty solid, but I personally would unmix the problem solving methodology from the planning/goal setting SMART principles as two separate things. One addresses problem solving, while the other addresses human cognitive shortcomings for getting things done.