Give a big decision a small framework

Write the decision before the answer

State the actual problem: for example, how to get reliably to work within a budget, rather than whether to buy one advertised car. List realistic alternatives, including waiting or changing the scope. A narrow question can hide options before you have compared them.

Choose criteria before scoring

The PACED approach names the problem, alternatives, criteria, evaluation, and decision. Pick criteria that matter to you, such as total cost, time, reliability, or ability to reverse the choice. Identify any non-negotiable requirement before giving scores. A good average cannot rescue an option that fails a necessary condition.

Mark unknowns instead of making them look precise. Test whether the decision changes under a higher cost, a delay, or a lower benefit. A scoring grid organises judgement; it does not manufacture certainty. After deciding, write down the assumptions and a review date so you can learn from the result without pretending you knew the future.