Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions

Apply proven computing strategies to everyday decisions and gain the edge in time, memory, and choice

Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths

2016

8 Key Insights

About This Book

Imagine knowing exactly when to stop searching and start deciding, how to balance exploring new opportunities with sticking to trusted favorites, and even how to arrange your daily tasks so you never miss a deadline. Algorithms to Live By translates the elegant logic of computer science into simple, practical rules that solve the messy problems of everyday life. From choosing an apartment to packing your closet, scheduling work, and managing relationships, you’ll discover the same proven methods that power modern computers—now tailored to optimize your time, attention, and resources.

About the Author

Brian Christian is an award-winning writer with degrees in computer science and philosophy. He explores the intersection of AI, culture, and cognition in bestselling works and lectures worldwide. Tom Griffiths is a cognitive scientist and professor at UC Berkeley, studying how human thinking aligns with computational models. Together they bring deep research, engaging storytelling, and real-world wisdom to life’s toughest decisions.

Biggest Takeaway

You’ll learn to apply the 37% rule for ‘when to stop’ in dating or house hunting, use the explore/exploit balance to overcome decision paralysis, organize your possessions with caching theory, and streamline your schedule with proven priority rules. Along the way you’ll sharpen your intuition for probabilistic thinking, debunk common mental pitfalls like overfitting, and build a toolkit of algorithms that deliver more clarity, efficiency, and confidence in both professional and personal challenges.

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