How to decide on a crucial life choice: mathematician talks benefits and pitfalls of the nearly perfect "37% rule"

Sometimes it can be very difficult to make an important decision. However, scientists know how to help with this with the help of math.

Scientists advise using the 37 percent rule. According to mathematician Thomas S Ferguson, this figure is the optimal point where the chances of success peak, IflScience writes.

Where does it come from?

The idea of using this rule originates from a popular puzzle in the 1960s described by mathematician Martin Gardner as the "Secretary Problem". To solve it, you need to choose the perfect candidate for a secretary job among a large number of applicants.

According to this mathematical calculation, you should reject the first 37% of the candidates and then select the first one that is better than all the previous ones. This rule maximizes the probability of making the best choice.

How does it work?

According to scientists, this rule is very applicable in life.

For example, when choosing a place to live, employees for your workplace, or even a candidate for a date with you. To do this, you only need to look at (communicate, get acquainted with) the options at first, but do not accept them, even if you like them. And then choose the offer that turns out to be better than all the previous ones.

There is always a risk

Although math is an exact science, this method is not without risks. Of course, it may be that the ideal option will be found in the first 37%, but according to this rule, you need to reject it. Still, according to scientists, this strategy makes sense.

Mathematicians call the 37 percent rule a universal formula for making important life decisions. It can be used to increase the chances of making the right choice by reducing uncertainty.

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