When a student is stuck on one way of representing a problem, he is in the state of ___________.

Correct option is D

Response set, however, refers to the tendency to stick to a limited set of responses, even when other alternatives are available. In this case, the student is stuck on one way of representing the problem, which suggests a limited response set rather than functional fixedness.
Information Booster
(a) Advanced Thinking:
The ability to think critically and creatively, to solve problems in new and innovative ways.
Key characteristics:
• Analyzes information deeply and from multiple perspectives
• Makes connections between seemingly unrelated concepts
• Generates and evaluates multiple solutions
• Adapts to changing circumstances and learns from mistakes
Example: A student who comes up with a unique solution to a complex math problem demonstrates advanced thinking.
(b) Analogical Thinking:
The ability to see similarities between different things and use those similarities to solve problems.
Key characteristics:
• Identifies relevant features and relationships
• Transfers knowledge from one domain to another
• Makes inferences and predictions based on analogies
• Uses metaphors and similes to explain complex concepts
Example: A doctor who uses knowledge of animal behavior to diagnose a patient's illness uses analogical thinking.
(c) Functional Fixedness:
The inability to see an object in a new way or use it for a purpose other than its intended function.
Key characteristics:
• Focuses on the typical or most common use of an object
• Difficulty in generating alternative solutions
• Limits creativity and problem-solving ability
Example: A person who tries to open a bottle with a hammer instead of a bottle opener is demonstrating functional fixedness.