Rule of thumb

A rule of thumb is an easily learned and easily applied procedure for approximately calculating or recalling some value, or for making some determination. Compare this to heuristic, a similar concept used in mathematical discourse, or in computer science, particularly in algorithm design. See also mnemonic.

Related Topics:
Heuristic - Mathematical discourse - Computer science - Algorithm - Mnemonic

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The term "rule of thumb" or similar exists in many languages and cultures. Its likely origin is that the thumb is often used for rough measurement by carpenters, seamstresses, artists and many others. In fact, the measurement of an inch is believed to have been derived from the distance between the tip of the thumb and the first joint. Rules of thumb such as the right hand rule in electromagnetics are also used as mnemonic devices. This usage, of course, is of more recent vintage.

Related Topics:
Inch - Right hand rule - Electromagnetics - Mnemonic

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