Direct search for exact solutions to the nonlinear Schroedinger equation

A five-dimensional symmetry algebra consisting of Lie point symmetries is firstly computed for the nonlinear Schroedinger equation, which, together with a reflection invariance, generates two five-parameter solution groups. Three ansaetze of transformations are secondly analyzed and used to construct exact solutions to the nonlinear Schroedinger equation. Various examples of exact solutions with constant, trigonometric function type, exponential function type and rational function amplitude are given upon careful analysis. A bifurcation phenomenon in the nonlinear Schroedinger equation is clearly exhibited during the solution process.