Heuristics are simple mental models that work not because they are precise, but because they emerge from repeated exposure to uncertainty, error, and real consequences. They distill a broad, holistic understanding into actionable rules.

Being reductionist in nature, heuristics can, however, be double-edged swords, ignoring the specifics of a real situation. This series attempts to document heuristics of a sufficiently high order to maintain their relevance across most situations. They are the guidelines I rely on when building systems. It should be read as a toolbox rather than a creed: not every tool applies to every situation, and some will inevitably be replaced as better tools emerge.