- technically, a special problem that exists in the physical universe now, on which the pc has his attention fixed. (HCOB 31 Mar 60)
- is one that exists in present time, in a real universe. It is any set of circumstances that so engages the attention of the preclear that he feels he should be doing something about it instead of being audited. (HCOB 3 Jul 59)
- a present time problem is one which has its elements in the material universe in present time, which is going on now, and which would demand the preclear's attention to such an extent that he would feel he had better be doing something about it rather than be audited. (HCOB 16 Dec 57)
- any worry that keeps a pc out of session, which worry must exist in present time in the real universe. (PAB 142) Abbr. PTP.