Decision rules of this sort are fast, in that decisions can be made quickly, without a computer; frugal, in that they require only limited information to reach a decision; and clear, in that they expose the grounds on which decisions are made

Decision rules of this sort are fast, in that decisions can be made quickly, without a computer; frugal, in that they require only limited information to reach a decision; and clear, in that they expose the grounds on which decisions are made. Rules satisfying these criteria have many benefits, both in the judicial context and beyond. For instance, easily memorized rules are likely to be adopted and used consistently. In medicine, frugal rules may reduce tests required, which can save time, money, and, in the case of triage situations, lives. And the clarity of simple rules engenders trust by revealing how decisions are made and indicating where they can be improved. Clarity can even become a legal requirement when society demands fairness and transparency. —