Understanding Determiners
Determiners are words that introduce nouns and help indicate quantity, possession, or definiteness. In this context, the choice of determiner affects the meaning of the sentence.
Analyzing the Options
- Few: This determiner suggests a small number, but it carries a positive connotation, implying that the students who solved the problem did so with some competence or ability.
- Many: This indicates a large number, which might suggest that solving the problem was common among the students, but it does not imply any particular skill or effort.
- Little: This determiner is used with uncountable nouns and does not fit in this context since "students" is a countable noun.
- Several: This suggests more than a few but not a large number. It implies that a moderate number of students managed to solve the problem.
Why "Few" is the Correct Choice
- Positive Connotation: Using "few" highlights the success of those students who were able to solve the problem independently, suggesting that they possess significant skills or understanding.
- Focus on Skill: The phrase emphasizes that among all students, only a small but competent group could solve the problem, showcasing their abilities.
- Contrast with Others: It subtly implies that most students may have struggled, thus making the achievement of those few more noteworthy.
Conclusion
In summary, "few" is the best determiner here as it effectively communicates that a small, capable group of students successfully solved the problem, thereby underscoring their competence in a challenging situation.

"Few" indicates a small number.