<![CDATA[In physics education, the ability to solve problems effectively is considered a core competency, as it allows students to translate their conceptual knowledge into systematic solutions for real-world, contextual problems. This study set out to examine the problem-solving ability of eleventh-grade students in the topic of static fluids, guided by five indicators derived from Bransford and Stein's IDEAL Problem Solver framework. A quantitative descriptive approach was used, involving a sample of 107 students from SMA Negeri 7 Padang who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered through a contextual essay test comprising four main questions with twelve sub-items, and the results were examined using descriptive statistical analysis. The results revealed that students' overall problem-solving ability fell into the Very Low category, with a mean score of 35.67%. Among the five indicators assessed, students showed comparatively stronger performance in identifying the problem, while their ability to define the problem-solving goal, analyze the problem and formulate a solution strategy, implement the chosen strategy, and evaluate and reflect on the outcome remained considerably weaker. These findings offer preliminary insight that can inform the design of instructional strategies aimed at strengthening students' problem-solving skills in physics education.]]>
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