Cognitive Psychology: HEURISTICS AND ALGORITHM

 WHAT ARE HEURISTICS?

A heuristic is a rule of thumb, a trial, a strategy, or an error method of solving problem.  

                                                  OR 

A cognitive shortcut that helps us make decisions and judgements quickly.  

Example: Marketers use heuristics to understand and influence behavior.  

Following your hunch, it can be faster than an algorithm but doesn’t guarantee a solution.  

COMMON USES FOR HEURISTICS:  

Heuristics are used to,

·       Reduce mental effort needed to make decisions  

·       Simplify complex and difficult questions  

·       Help with problem solving  

·       They are fast and accurate way to arrive at a result

TYPES OF HEURISTICS:  

The four common types of heuristics include,  

·       Availability Heuristics  

·       Anchoring Heuristics  

·       Responsiveness Heuristics  

·       Affect Heuristics  

ALGORITHM:  

An algorithm is a systematic step by step, procedure for solving problems.  

Example: solving a complex mathematics problem, bake a cake Following the right instructions, it guarantees a solution.  

WHEN TO USE AN ALGORITHM:  

If complete accuracy is required, it is best to use an algorithm. By using an algorithm, accuracy is increased and potential mistakes are minimized.  

If you are working in a situation where you absolutely need the correct or best possible answer, your best bet to use an algorithm.  

WHEN TO USE HEURISTICS:  

On the other hand, if time is an issue, then it may be best to use a heuristic. Mistakes may occur, but this approach allows for speedy decisions when time is of the essence.  

Heuristics are more commonly used in everyday situations.  

DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN ALGORITHM AND HEURISTICS:  

Algorithms and heuristics are different approaches to solving problems. Algorithm are comprehensive step-by-step procedures. They are exhaustive and guarantee the correct solution, but may be time-consuming and require a lot of mental effort. In contrast, heuristics are shortcut strategies or rules-of-thumb. Although they may save time and effort, they are not always guaranteed to yield the correct solution.  

CONCLUSION:  

In conclusion, heuristics and algorithms are two techniques to solve problems where, heuristics are used in everyday decisions. They are fast, unconscious and automatic whereas, algorithm is used in complex decisions. They are slow, conscious, effortful and reliable.