How do you prevent anchoring bias? (2024)

The first step to prevent anchoring bias is to recognize when you are exposed to an anchor that might influence your judgment. This could be a number, a word, a suggestion, or a previous experience that sets a reference point for your thinking. For example, if you are asked to guess the population of a city, you might be anchored by the first number that comes to your mind or that you hear from someone else. To identify the anchor, ask yourself what information you are using as a basis for your decision or solution, and where it came from.

The second step to prevent anchoring bias is to seek out different perspectives that might challenge or expand your view of the problem or situation. This could involve asking for feedback, researching other sources, or exploring diverse options. For example, if you are brainstorming ideas for a new product, you might be anchored by the existing features or competitors in the market. To seek alternative perspectives, ask yourself what other possibilities or angles you might be missing or overlooking.

The third step to prevent anchoring bias is to adjust your thinking based on the new information or insights you have gathered. This could involve revising your assumptions, updating your estimates, or generating new ideas. For example, if you are negotiating a salary, you might be anchored by the initial offer or your current income. To adjust your thinking, ask yourself what factors or criteria you should consider to make a fair and realistic evaluation.

The fourth step to prevent anchoring bias is to test your solutions against the actual problem or situation. This could involve experimenting, prototyping, or validating your ideas with data or feedback. For example, if you are designing a website, you might be anchored by the first layout or color scheme you create. To test your solutions, ask yourself how well they meet the needs and expectations of your users or customers.

The fifth step to prevent anchoring bias is to reflect on your process and learn from your experience. This could involve reviewing your goals, outcomes, and challenges, and identifying what worked well and what could be improved. For example, if you are solving a puzzle, you might be anchored by the first strategy or clue you follow. To reflect on your process, ask yourself what you learned from the problem and how you can apply it to future situations.

The sixth and final step to prevent anchoring bias is to practice regularly and develop your creative problem solving skills. This could involve exposing yourself to different types of problems, situations, and domains, and challenging yourself to think critically and creatively. For example, you could try solving riddles, playing games, or taking courses that stimulate your mind and imagination. To practice regularly, ask yourself how you can make creative problem solving a habit and a fun activity.

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Creative Problem Solving

+ Follow

Thanks for your feedback

Your feedback is private. Like or react to bring the conversation to your network.