Final answer:
Heuristics are mental shortcuts that allow for quick problem-solving and decision-making, often used when information is overwhelming, decision urgency is high, or upon facing a familiar situation. Unlike algorithms, which must be followed precisely, heuristics provide a more flexible, though sometimes less accurate, approach.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Heuristics?
Heuristics are mental shortcuts or "rules of thumb" that simplify decision making and problem-solving. These mechanisms work by reducing the cognitive load on individuals by providing quick, often satisfactory solutions to complex problems without the need for thorough analysis. Heuristics come into play under certain circumstances such as when facing too much information, lacking adequate time, dealing with minor decisions, having limited information, or when an appropriate heuristic comes to mind spontaneously. A well-known example of a heuristic is the availability heuristic, where people make decisions based on the information easily available to them. Heuristics allow for rapid responses but can lead to cognitive biases and less optimal decisions. In contrast, an algorithm is a set of specified steps to solve a problem, which must be followed exactly to reach a correct result.
Some common roadblocks to effective problem-solving include mental set, functional fixedness, and various biases. While heuristics can help navigate these roadblocks by simplifying the process, they may sometimes reinforce these obstacles through cognitive biases like the anchoring bias. It's essential to recognize when heuristics are beneficial and when more systematic approaches are warranted.