“The formulation of the problem is often more essential than its solution, which may be merely a matter of mathematical or experimental skill.”
Share this quote
Attribution note
No reliable primary or scholarly source confirms this exact wording as Albert Einstein's. It is widely circulated under his name and is listed as commonly attributed.
About this quote
This wording, beginning "The formulation of the problem is often more essential than…," circulates under Einstein's name and focuses on formulation, problem, often. No strong source for the exact text was found, so the page presents it as commonly attributed while still explaining its practical connection to science and perseverance.
When to use it
- Use "The formulation of the problem is often more essential than…" in a science discussion, then ask which concrete claim the wording makes.
- Compare its treatment of formulation with problem in a lesson, essay, or editorial note before drawing a conclusion.
- Before sharing it as Einstein's exact words, display the attribution caveat and follow the evidence link recorded on the page.