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Anchoring bias

Relying too heavily on an initial number, value, or reference point when making a judgment.

Published 04 August 2026Updated 04 August 2026

Anchoring bias occurs when an initial value pulls later estimates toward it, even when the anchor is arbitrary or weakly relevant. Generate an estimate independently, test multiple reference points, and justify adjustments with evidence.

Sources

Judgment under Uncertainty: Heuristics and Biases

Science / 1974 / Paper

Classic heuristics and biases paper.