<P> The nine - dot problem is a well - defined problem . It has a clearly stated goal, and all necessary information to solve the problem is included (connect all of the dots using four straight lines). Furthermore, well - defined problems have a clear ending (you know when you have reached the solution). Although the solution is "outside the box" and not easy to see at first, once it has been found, it seems obvious . Other examples of well - defined problems are the Tower of Hanoi and the Rubik's Cube . </P> <P> In contrast, characteristics of ill - defined problems are: </P> <Ul> <Li> not clear what the question really is </Li> <Li> not clear how to arrive at a solution </Li> <Li> no idea what the solution looks like </Li> </Ul> <Li> not clear what the question really is </Li>

Square of 9 dots connect with 4 lines