Heuristics

"A usually speculative formulation serving as a guide in the investigation or solution of a problem." (from www.answers.com) We use these little shortcuts all the time to rapidly make judgments, solve problems, evaluate information, etc. In short, they are "rules of thumb." For example, how do you make inferences about the quality of a restaurant when other information such as experience and referrals are lacking? Sure, cleanliness, the number and type of patrons, the menu selection and prices, and any number of "extrinsic cues" may be used, but there are other less well-known heuristics.

For instance:
- the better a restaurant's ocean view, the poorer (and more expensive) the food will be.
- Any restaurant with a neon beer sign in the window will offer a disappointing dining experience.
- Never order newburg (as it is often old fish camoflaged in sauce).

There must be countless others, and maybe the few readers can add to the list.