The characteristics of clinical problem solving tasks are discussed and applied to reading diagnosis and remediation. These characteristics are: (1) clinical practice is concerned with action directed toward a particular problem or set of problems, (2) clinicians are generally concerned with the problems of a particular individual, (3) clinical skills are learned by practicing under supervision, (4) clinical problems are solved by collecting information and drawing conclusions. Two major types of clinical models--diagnostic and therapeutic--are distinguished. In the diagnostic mode, the state of the system or person is first determined. The nature of the problem and its causes are identified. Then, a remedy is chosen that is suited for the problem. In the therapeutic mode, the state of the system is identified only to the point where an action can be taken. Confirmation of a suspected problem follows from the treatment. Since the clinical model is problem-initiated and problem-directed, it is appropriate for the work of reading clinicians. However, it may be less useful for the prevention of problems or for dealing with non-problematic educational planning. (MV)