Cognitive Scaffold

Preparing your thinking workspace

arrow_back_ios_new
MENTAL MODEL · M9144

Maximin

Maximin
DecideHigh supportDecision Science
Included
account_tree

Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Maximin: the minimum value among the worst-case scenarios of each option. Maximax: choose the option with the largest minimum value.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Conservative decision-making strategy. In uncertain environments, choose the option that guarantees the lowest return, suitable for risk-averse individuals.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Wald's maximin criterion: under uncertainty, first estimate the worst outcome for each option, then choose the one with the best worst outcome. It is a conservative decision under extreme risk aversion.

MINIMUM ACTION

In progress 0/3

Practice this model in one real situation:

Check to track your progress (stored locally)
Learning progress0%
account_treeGenealogyexpand_more
menu_bookReferencesexpand_more

Source support: Explicit

RELATED MODELS

Related model

Segal's Law

An adage using two disagreeing watches to illustrate uncertainty from conflicting sources.

arrow_forwardRelated model

The Idea Maze

A good idea is not a momentary inspiration, but a maze map containing multiple paths, dead ends, turning points, and treasures.

arrow_forwardRelated model

Double Diamond Model

Proposed by the British Design Council.

arrow_forward