Heuristic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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heuristic
[hjuหrษชstษชk ]
Definition
problem-solving
A heuristic is a practical method or approach used to problem-solving and decision-making that may not be perfect but is sufficient for reaching an immediate goal. It serves as a shortcut to finding solutions by simplifying complex processes and reducing the time and effort needed. Heuristics are widely applied in various fields, including psychology, computer science, and economics, to facilitate reasoning and judgment under uncertainty.
Synonyms
approach, rule of thumb, shortcut.
Examples of usage
- Using heuristics can speed up the decision-making process.
- The heuristic method proved effective in solving the problem.
- He developed a heuristic strategy to tackle the complex challenge.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Heuristics are mental shortcuts that help make decisions quickly based on past experiences.
- Common heuristics include availability (judging how likely something is based on recent memories) and representativeness (deciding based on how much something resembles a category).
- While useful, relying too much on heuristics can lead to cognitive biases and errors in judgment.
Education
- In learning environments, heuristics encourage students to explore problem-solving techniques rather than memorize solutions.
- Teachers often use heuristic methods to foster creativity and critical thinking among students.
- Project-based learning often employs heuristic approaches, allowing learners to experiment and discover answers themselves.
Technology
- In computer science, heuristics are used in algorithms to find approximate solutions to complex problems.
- Heuristic algorithms play a crucial role in artificial intelligence, helping machines learn and adapt efficiently.
- Web search engines often use heuristics to determine the relevance of pages to improve search results.
Pop Culture
- The term has entered popular lexicon through discussions about problem-solving and creativity in movies and books.
- Popular TV shows often depict characters using heuristics when they face challenging situations, illustrating their practical approach.
- In video games, players frequently rely on heuristic thinking to find quick strategies for level completion or puzzle-solving.
Origin of 'heuristic'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Greek word 'heuriskein,' which means 'to find' or 'to discover.'
- The concept has been in use since the 19th century in psychology and education.
- Famous mathematician Archimedes used heuristics when he famously shouted 'Eureka!' upon discovering a method to measure volume.
The term 'heuristic' originates from the Greek word 'heuriskein', which means 'to find' or 'to discover'. This connection to discovery is significant, as heuristics aid individuals in navigating complex problems by enabling them to uncover practical solutions rather than exhaustively analyzing every possibility. The term gained prominence in the 20th century, particularly in psychology, where researchers studied how people make decisions and solve problems. Heuristic methods have become essential in artificial intelligence and computer science, as algorithms often utilize heuristic approaches to efficiently process data and solve computational problems. Overall, the evolution of heuristics reflects a growing understanding of human cognition and the necessity of efficient problem-solving techniques.