Experience and practice are crucial for making better decisions, especially in uncertain situations, but they aren’t the same. Perfect practice builds expertise, while varied experiences across different environments enhance decision-making by expanding mental patterns. Decision-making relies on situational awareness, which involves sensing, understanding, and projecting future outcomes, all influenced by our training, memories, and expectations. Models like Gary Klein’s recognition-primed decision-making show how we use cues and past experiences to act efficiently, even under pressure. Feedback loops and a culture of learning are key to refining our actions. By diversifying your practice and learning, you can build the mental models needed to think and act like an expert.

Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-importance-of-experience

Links: DEBRIEF model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief

Tags: English, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Situation Awareness