Heuristic Reasoning Example

The heuristic reasoning It is a type of reasoning in which there is no linear hierarchy in the concepts to be compared. This is why it is also called fuzzy reasoning. It is used to find a "creative" or "imaginative" solution to a problem.

Heuristic reasoning offers a solution to a problem, based on previous experience and knowledge, leading to an effective solution to a problem posed, even when this solution is not the most optimal.

In fuzzy reasoning, relative expressions are used, such as "very high", "very low", "little", "somewhat".

The main logical operator used is the conditional: if... then.

This type of operator allows to establish a conclusion or make a decision more quickly, allowing establish a non-linear analysis system that allows the resolution of a problem, be it simple or complex.

The truth values ​​can be established with true and false values, identified with the mathematical values ​​0 for negative responses and 1 for positive ones. The assignment of this type of values ​​is used mainly in computing and programming of electrical appliances, and is known as Boolean algebra.

In its practical applications, this reasoning is used in electronic systems so that automatically through a system of control that stores user preferences, based on that data, "make a decision", control, without the user intervening.

This type of system is used when there is no mathematical model that can work more efficiently.

In everyday life this type of logic can be found in a simplified way, when we consult a fault location scheme.

Example of heuristic reasoning:

• My computer is failing.
• 1.- Does it turn on?
• Yes: Go to 2.
• No: Go to 3.
• 2.- Does it display the information on the screen?
• Yes: Go to 4.
• No: Go to 5.
• 3.- Check the power cable. Does it turn on?
• Yes: Go to 2.
• No: Go to 6.
• 4.- Does it display information about the hard drives?
• Yes: Go to 7.
• No: Go to 8.
• 5: Check Ram Memory modules. Does it display the information on the screen?
• Yes: Go to 4.
• No: Go to 9.
• 6.- Check the power source.
• A: Move the power button. Did it turn on?
• Yes: Go to 2
• No: Go to 10
• B: Does it smell burning?
• Yes: Go to 10
• No: Go to 10
• 7.- The computer starts up correctly.
• 8.- Change the hard drives.
• 9.- Change the Ram Memory.
• 10.- Change the power source.