That feeling of being completely stuck is the worst. But it is not a dead end. It is a crossroads. Here's which way to turn.

Step 1: Breathe. Panic is the enemy. It shuts down the logical part of your brain. Take one deep breath.

Step 2: Re-read the Problem. Slowly. Aloud. Did you miss a keyword? A negative sign?

Step 3: Ask 'What is the Goal?'. What am I actually trying to solve for? Re-focus on the objective.

Step 4: Ask 'What Do I Know?'. Write down all the given information and any relevant formulas you can think of.

Step 5: Try a Simpler Version. Can you make up a similar problem with easier numbers? Solving that might reveal the process.

Step 6: Draw a Picture. Can you visualize the problem? A diagram can often reveal a path forward.

Step 7: Work Backwards. Look at the answer in the back of the book. Can you see the steps that would get you there?

Step 8: Phone a Friend. Ask a classmate or consult an online resource like Khan Academy for that specific topic.

Step 9: Take a Break. Walk away for 10 minutes. Your brain will continue to work on the problem in the background.