The effects of implementing a guided design method of instruction on the acquisition of problem-solving skills, mastery of course content, and application of content to solve realistic situations are the primary foci of this practice-based research synthesis. Guided design instruction conveys subject matter while at the same time allowing students the opportunity to learn a decision-making process that focuses on realistic situations from the field of study. The synthesis describes the types of instructional strategies most likely to improve both knowledge and realistic problem-solving skills in adult learners.