The solution to the candle problem requires overcoming functional fixedness by repurposing the thumbtack box. Instead of viewing it solely as a container for tacks, it must be seen as a potential shelf. The box is emptied, attached to the wall with a thumbtack, and the candle is then placed inside it.

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University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

The candle problem presents participants with a set of items, typically a candle, a book of matches, and a box of thumbtacks. The objective is to affix the candle to a wall in such a way that it will not drip wax onto the floor or table below.

The Candle Problem Setup

Goldstein, E. B. (2014). Cognitive psychology: Connecting mind, research and everyday experience. Nelson Education.


Cognitive psychology: Connecting mind, research and everyday experience

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

A researcher presents a participant with a candle, a book of matches, and a box full of thumbtacks. The task is to affix the candle to a corkboard wall so that it burns without dripping wax on the floor. Based on the typical performance in this task, what is the most significant cognitive hurdle participants must overcome?

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