What approach treats the solution as an overall goal and breaks it into specific tasks?

The approach that treats the solution as an overall goal and breaks it into specific tasks is known as Means-End Analysis. This method is a problem-solving strategy that focuses on determining the ultimate goal and identifying the means of achieving that goal by breaking it down into manageable tasks or sub-goals.

In Means-End Analysis, individuals assess the distance between their current state and the desired end state, identifying the steps that need to be taken to bridge that gap. This process helps organize and streamline efforts, enabling one to tackle complex problems by focusing on smaller, achievable objectives that contribute to the larger goal.

This structured method is particularly useful in coding and algorithm design, as it allows for a clear roadmap of tasks necessary for developing a solution. By focusing on the end goal, it encourages clarity in planning and execution.