Final answer:
Heuristics are mental shortcuts used in problem-solving that are quicker than algorithms but less exact. Examples include the 'five-minute rule' for tackling small tasks and breaking down larger tasks into attainable steps. They are developed through experience but may not be the best approach for more complex problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Heuristics are mental shortcuts that we use for problem-solving. They are not as precise as algorithms but provide a quick and efficient way to tackle problems. An example from daily life could be the rule of thumb I use when prioritizing tasks: 'If it takes less than five minutes, do it immediately.' This heuristic is based on the past experience that small tasks can accumulate and become overwhelming, so dealing with them promptly tends to be more efficient. Another instance could be the heuristic of breaking down a large project into smaller steps, such as organizing a complex assignment into research, drafting, revising, and finalizing, which makes the task more manageable.
These cognitive shortcuts span across various domains like decision-making and creativity. We tend to develop heuristics through repeated experience which, over time, helps us to create patterns that our brain can use to bypass complex reasoning processes. While heuristics can greatly aid in dealing with routine and simple tasks, they are not without pitfalls, as they may lead to errors or biases in more complex situations that require detailed analysis.