What term describes a problem-solving approach to find a satisfactory solution when an optimal solution is impractical or impossible?

What term describes a problem-solving approach to find a satisfactory solution when an optimal solution is impractical or impossible?

• A. Algorithm
• B. Code
• C. Heuristic
• D. Protocol

Answer: (C)

A heuristic is a rule-of-thumb approach for solving problems quickly when finding the perfect, optimal solution would take too long or be impractical. It focuses on getting a good-enough answer fast rather than guaranteeing the best possible one. This fits the scenario because when time, resources, or information are limited, people and systems rely on heuristics to reach workable solutions efficiently. For example, in planning a trip, you might choose a route that seems reasonable based on distance and traffic, rather than exhaustively evaluating every possible path to guarantee the absolute shortest one. Other options don’t fit as well. An algorithm is a precise, step-by-step method that guarantees a solution (if one exists) but can be costly to run. Code is the actual program that implements solutions, not a problem-solving strategy. A protocol is a set of rules for communication or interaction, not a general problem-solving method.

A heuristic is a rule-of-thumb approach for solving problems quickly when finding the perfect, optimal solution would take too long or be impractical. It focuses on getting a good-enough answer fast rather than guaranteeing the best possible one.

This fits the scenario because when time, resources, or information are limited, people and systems rely on heuristics to reach workable solutions efficiently. For example, in planning a trip, you might choose a route that seems reasonable based on distance and traffic, rather than exhaustively evaluating every possible path to guarantee the absolute shortest one.

Other options don’t fit as well. An algorithm is a precise, step-by-step method that guarantees a solution (if one exists) but can be costly to run. Code is the actual program that implements solutions, not a problem-solving strategy. A protocol is a set of rules for communication or interaction, not a general problem-solving method.