Misconceptions about sinking and floating phenomena are some of the most challenging to overcome (Yin 2005), possibly because explaining sinking and floating requires students to understand challenging topics such as density, force, and motion. Two scientific principles are typically used in U.S. science curricula to explain sinking and floating: resolution of forces and relative density. This article introduces a method for guiding students to apply the principles to solve tricky misconception problems after students have learned the principles through proper inquiry and lessons about sinking and floating. (Contains 5 figures.)