1. The problem is to solve for the acceleration or force using the formula $f = ma$. 2. The formula $f = ma$ means force equals mass times acceleration. 3. To find acceleration, rearrange the formula: $$a = \frac{f}{m}$$. 4. To find force, use the original formula: $$f = ma$$. 5. You need either force and mass to find acceleration, or mass and acceleration to find force. 6. Substitute the known values into the formula and solve. 7. This formula is fundamental in Newtonian mechanics and applies when the net force and mass are known.