Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
AI walks through likely causes and fixes.
📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 90% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.
Show prompt & steps
Describe the symptoms and error messages and AI walks you through likely causes and step-by-step fixes, most likely first.
Ready-to-use prompt
I work as a computer systems analyst. Part of my job is to troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning. Context: We use Linux and UNIX; the work draws on computers and electronics, customer and personal service and mathematics. System: [application, telehealth] Symptoms: [errors, logs] List likely causes and tests. Rank causes from most to least likely with a quick test for each, and flag safety risks.
10-minute exercise: Application troubleshooting
Never follow AI repair steps that bypass safety procedures, lockout/tagout or manufacturer guidance.
Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems..