AP Psychology Practice Test

What is the availability heuristic?

1. The process of estimating the frequency of an event based on its vividness or memorability

2. The inability to see the solution to a problem

3. A tendency to prefer information that confirms one's existing beliefs

4. The use of problem-solving methods that have worked in the past

The correct answer is: The process of estimating the frequency of an event based on its vividness or memorability

The availability heuristic refers to the mental shortcut where individuals estimate the likelihood of events based on how easily examples come to mind. This means that vivid or memorable events tend to be overestimated in frequency compared to less dramatic or memorable ones. When people rely on their immediate thoughts or recent experiences to judge frequency or probability, they are engaging in this heuristic. In contrast, the other choices address different cognitive processes. The inability to see a solution to a problem describes a situation known as "mental set" or "functional fixedness." Preferring information that confirms existing beliefs refers to confirmation bias, a different cognitive bias where individuals favor information that supports their preconceptions. Lastly, utilizing problem-solving methods that have worked in the past relates to the concept of heuristics more broadly but does not specifically capture the essence of the availability heuristic. Thus, the definition that aligns with the availability heuristic is the one focused on estimating frequencies based on how prominently information comes to mind.