Magic Problem Solver

Inspired by the original magic 8 ball, this completely free app is fun, but it's also more than a game; it will help you to think about decisions you are trying to make, and it will help you to solve problems by generating more options and then help you to make the best choice between them.

Ask it anything and then flip your phone over and back again, and the answer will appear from the depths. If you need help with anything that is worrying you, this app will help you with ideas and possible solutions.

It includes ideas influenced by Kepner-Tregoe, Ishikawa, Edward DeBono's coloured hats and lateral thinking, brainstorming, starting with Why, left and right brain thinking, decision trees, FMEA and risk analysis, and many other business techniques.

Whereas the original 8-ball could only answer yes or no questions, this app is designed to help you with much more complicated questions and problems.

To use it you first decide what type of problem you have: is it a decision where you are choosing between two or more options, or is it a problem where you need to generate ideas first. Or is it just something that you need help with. Select one of these, and then ask the app your question, turning it over and back to see the answer.

The app will also help you learn about problem solving and decision-making, therefore improving your skills in these areas even when you're not using the app to help with your decisions.

It's a fascinating and fun way to think more effectively about every aspect of your life.