Final answer:
A generic algorithm is an approach to solving problems based on the functions like search engines and social media algorithms. Heuristics offer quicker but less reliable shortcuts.
Recognizing the difference between algorithms and heuristics, as well as cognitive biases, is crucial for effective problem-solving.
Step-by-step explanation:
Algorithms are highly detailed and must be followed precisely to ensure the correct result every time. Unlike algorithms, heuristics serve as mental shortcuts or general frameworks for problem-solving, which can be quicker but less reliable than algorithms.
Algorithms can be found in many areas of daily life, such as search engine rankings and social media feeds, where they serve to organize and prioritize information.
Effective problem-solving often requires overcoming certain roadblocks, such as cognitive bias. For instance, anchoring bias can lead individuals to fixate on one aspect of a problem, while the availability heuristic may cause decisions to be made based on the most immediately available information, regardless of its relevance or accuracy.
Understanding the differences between algorithms and heuristics, as well as recognizing cognitive biases, is crucial for efficient decision-making and problem resolution.