Which of the following best describes a heuristic?

A heuristic is best described as a rule of thumb that simplifies decision-making. This means that it provides general guidelines or strategies that help individuals navigate complex problems without guaranteeing a perfect or optimal solution. Heuristics are often employed in situations where time or information is limited; they allow individuals to make quick and efficient decisions based on experience or practical considerations rather than exhaustive analysis.

In contrast, the other options suggest approaches that imply certainty and rigor in problem-solving. For instance, a guaranteed method or a fixed formula indicates that there is a one-size-fits-all solution, which is not the case with heuristics, as they can vary greatly depending on context and experience. Similarly, an exhaustive approach entails thorough analysis and exploration of all possible solutions, contradicting the essence of heuristics, which prioritize efficiency and simplicity over exhaustive examination.