User Experience
Heuristic
Plain English
A rule of thumb.
Definition
A heuristic is a general rule or principle used to guide glossaryDecision MakingDecision making is the process of selecting the best course of action from available options based on information, goals, and constraints.Open glossary term.
In practice
Used in design and evaluation to assess glossaryUsabilityUsability is how easy and efficient it is for users to complete tasks within a product. It focuses on clarity, simplicity, and reducing effort so users can achieve their goals without confusion or friction.Open glossary term.
In context
It is a shortcut for judgement, useful for finding candidate problems quickly and never a substitute for watching a real person try.
The reality
Heuristics are guidelines, not strict rules.
Compared with
Heuristic vs Guideline
A heuristic is a broad principle requiring interpretation: keep the user informed of glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term status. A guideline is specific and checkable: provide glossaryFeedbackFeedback is the system response that informs users about the result of their actions. It helps users understand what has happened and what to do next.Open glossary term within one hundred milliseconds. Heuristics guide thinking; guidelines can be audited.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is a heuristic?
A general rule used for guidance.
Where are heuristics used?
In design and glossaryUsabilityUsability is how easy and efficient it is for users to complete tasks within a product. It focuses on clarity, simplicity, and reducing effort so users can achieve their goals without confusion or friction.Open glossary term evaluation.
Are heuristics fixed rules?
No, they are flexible guidelines.
Why are they useful?
They help identify issues quickly.
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