Heuristics

Tuesday, November 26th, 2013

A heuristic is a simple, fast and easy to apply rule or behavioural pattern.(1-3)  Only a limited amount of external data and little cognitive effort are needed for its execution. A heuristic can be a powerful tool if it is adapted to the particular environment. A heuristics can be unconscious or deliberate. read more

Rules of thumb

Friday, November 15th, 2013

The terms ‘heuristics’ and ‘rule of thumb’ are often used as synonyms, but there are some differences in meaning.(1) A rule of thumb was explained as a rough practical rule that was based on practice and experience. Most likely the saying comes from the length of the first joint of the thumb, which is about one inch. read more