Cognitive Bias and Related Concepts

A thinking error that causes us to make decisions or judgments that aren’t fully logical or objective. Example: Believing something is true just because you’ve heard it many times.

A mistake in reasoning or a false argument that sounds convincing but isn’t logically correct. Example: “If we don’t ban phones, grades will drop” — this assumes one cause without evidence.

A type of bias or fallacy where people do something simply because others are doing it. Example: Buying a product because “everyone else has it.

To make something invalid, ineffective, or to say it is not true. Example: “One failing grade doesn’t negate all your hard work.

To generate lots of ideas quickly without judging them. Example: A class brainstorms possible topics for their assignment.

To accept something difficult or unpleasant and push through it with determination. Example: “I had to grit my teeth and finish the last part of the assignment.

A person who tends to expect positive outcomes and focuses on the good. Example: An optimist sees a challenge as an opportunity to improve.

The ability to recover quickly from setbacks, stress, or difficulty. Example: When your first draft goes badly but you try again instead of giving up.

Strategies or behaviours people use to manage stress, emotions, or difficult situations. Example: Deep breathing, journaling, exercise, or talking to someone.

A personality assessment describing four behaviour styles — Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, Conscientiousness. Example: Someone with high “D” might be direct and decisive; someone with high “S” might be calm and supportive.