In cognitive psychology, a heuristic allowing people to make quick judgments using little information is referred to as a:

• A. algorithm
• B. representativeness heuristic
• C. anchoring heuristic
• D. availability heuristic

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of heuristics in cognitive psychology. Heuristics are mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that simplify decision-making and problem-solving processes.
2. Step 2: Review the definitions of the options provided: an algorithm is a step-by-step procedure that guarantees a solution; the representativeness heuristic involves judging probabilities based on how much something resembles a typical case; the availability heuristic involves estimating likelihood based on how easily examples come to mind; the anchoring heuristic involves relying heavily on an initial piece of information (the 'anchor') when making decisions.
3. Step 3: Identify which heuristic specifically allows people to make quick judgments using little information. This heuristic uses an initial reference point to make estimates or decisions quickly.
4. Step 4: Recognize that the anchoring heuristic fits this description because it involves making quick judgments based on an initial anchor or starting point, even if that information is limited.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the heuristic described in the problem is the anchoring heuristic, as it best matches the definition of making quick judgments using little information.