Brian's problem-solving approach is best described as relying on

• A. Waiting for rescue
• B. Following a strict plan
• C. Making use of whatever was at hand
• D. Running blindly

Answer: (C)

The main concept being tested is resourcefulness—solving problems by using whatever is available. Brian’s situation in the story forces him to meet basic needs like shelter, fire, and food with what he can scavenge or fashion from his surroundings. He doesn’t wait for someone to rescue him or rely on a rigid plan that can’t adapt to new challenges. Instead, he examines his environment and makes use of whatever is at hand—the hatchet, wood, vines, and other natural materials—to create tools, build shelter, start a fire, and find food. This makes his approach flexible, practical, and effective in a survival frame, which is why it stands out as the best description.

The other approaches don’t fit his method: waiting for rescue is passive, a strict plan ignores changing conditions, and running blindly is reckless and unfocused. Brian’s success comes from improvising and using what’s around him.