Methodological module
Weighted criteria
Several viable options need a transparent trade-off.
- When it helps
- Use it when two or more viable options trade different benefits against cost, risk, time, or values.
- Origin
- Decision analysis · criteria and trade-off comparison
What this module does
Weighted criteria make a difficult choice inspectable. Instead of relying on one overall impression, you state what matters, assign relative importance, and compare the same options on the same scale.
How to use it
- List only the options that are actually available.
- Choose 3–6 decision criteria.
- Give each criterion a weight totaling 100%.
- Score every option on the same scale.
- Multiply scores by weights and inspect the ranking.
- Stress-test the result before committing.
Practical example
Situation
A person is choosing between two job offers: one pays more, the other offers stronger learning and flexibility.
Result
After weighting income, learning, flexibility, commute, and stability, the second offer leads narrowly; changing one uncertain score reveals what must be verified with the employer.
Limitations
- Numbers clarify judgment but do not make it objective.
- Poor criteria or guessed scores produce false precision.
- Non-negotiable constraints should be filters, not low-weight criteria.
Standalone template
Copy these prompts and work through them without Selecton.
Options: …
Must-have filters: …
Criterion / weight: …
Scores by option: …
Weighted ranking: …
What could reverse the result: …
How it fits into Selecton
The app keeps a reliable five-stage baseline and now adds an adaptive-methods-v1 layer: typed method cards can be selected automatically or received as an explicit lens from a method page. Full non-linear routing and effectiveness measurement remain under evaluation.
Auto, adaptation, and combinations
The intended Auto mode selects one primary method for the next useful move, based on the state of the decision. A route may use different modules in sequence—for example GROW to clarify a goal, weighted criteria to compare options, then a pre-mortem to test the plan. They are not blended into an opaque prompt: every transition should remain explainable and reversible to the baseline route.