> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.designreference.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.designreference.xyz/cognitive-tools/universal/decision-making/the-hard-choice-model.md).

# The Hard Choice Model

<figure><img src="/files/YX09cwZBQj5OFYuntbNs" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The Hard Choice Model is a framework that helps you understand the kind of decision you're making and choose the right approach. By understanding the type of decision you're facing, you can choose the appropriate strategy to make the best possible choice.

Sources and related content It categorises choices based on two factors:

* **Impact**: How significant is the outcome of the decision?
* **Comparison**: How easy is it to compare the options?

This model divides decisions into four categories:

1. **No-brainer**\
   These are simple decisions with low impact and easy comparisons. You can make them quickly and confidently. For example, choosing between two brands of the same product when the price difference is negligible.
2. **Apples/Oranges choice**\
   These decisions have low impact but are difficult to compare. You might need to clarify what's truly important to you. For example, choosing between a weekend hike or a movie night with friends.
3. **Big choice**\
   These decisions have a big impact but are easy to compare. Take your time and gather information before making a choice. For example, choosing between two job offers with significantly different salaries and benefits.
4. **Hard choice**\
   These are decisions with a big impact and difficult comparisons. They require careful thought and consideration of many factors. For example, deciding whether to accept a job offer in a different city or stay in your current job.

Examples for each quadrant of The Hard Choice Model:

#### 1. No-brainer

* Decision: Choosing between two brands of the same product with the same price and features.
* Explanation: Both options are essentially the same, so the decision is easy to make.

#### 2. Apples/Oranges choice

* Decision: Choosing between a weekend getaway or a new hobby.
* Explanation: Both options are appealing, but they are different in nature and difficult to compare directly. You might need to consider your priorities and values to make a decision.

#### 3. Big choice

* Decision: Choosing between two job offers with significantly different salaries and benefits.
* Explanation: The impact of this decision is high, but the options are easy to compare based on factors like salary, benefits, location, and job responsibilities.

#### 4. Hard choice

* Decision: Deciding whether to accept a job offer in a different city or stay in your current job.
* Explanation: This decision has a high impact on your career, personal life, and finances. The options are difficult to compare because they involve weighing different priorities and making trade-offs.

#### Further Reading

{% embed url="<https://untools.co/hard-choice-model/>" %}

{% embed url="<https://dropbox.design/article/mental-models-for-designers>" %}


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