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When a familiar analogy is applied to understand a new problem, the cognitive process of schema activation is at work. Schemas are mental structures that help us organize and interpret information based on our previous experiences. By using an analogy, an individual taps into an existing schema that contains relevant information about a similar situation. This connection allows one to transfer knowledge from the familiar scenario to the new problem, facilitating comprehension and problem-solving.

In this context, the use of analogy draws upon previously stored knowledge, making it easier to grasp the underlying principles of the new problem. This process generates insights and guides reasoning by linking new experiences to established frameworks, enhancing learning and understanding. While reasoning and intuitive thinking may also play roles in problem-solving, the act of connecting through analogy primarily reflects the activation of relevant schemas. Metacognition, on the other hand, involves awareness and regulation of one's own thinking processes, rather than the direct application of knowledge through comparison.