When guessing is preferred over analysis

[Loren Booda]

Are there nontrivial mathematical equations more easily solved by guessing than by analysis?

In part, P/Q for polynomials comes to mind.

 

[honestrosewater]

What counts as a (good enough) solution? Do iterative methods initialized with a guess count as guessing? Do you not have numerical analysis in mind?

 

[HallsofIvy]

An educated guess is always a good way of solving a problem. As long, of course, as you check the answer and verifty it.