Thinking Traps

Belief and Reasoning Biases

Pattern recognition bias

Overdetecting patterns because patterns feel useful.

What Is Pattern recognition bias?

Pattern recognition bias is a thinking trap where overdetecting patterns because patterns feel useful.

How It Tricks You

It can make a conclusion feel proven because it fits what already seems true.

Real-World Example

A trader sees a signal in a random wiggle of prices.

Seen Online As

What To Ask Instead

What would disconfirm this pattern?

Related Thinking Traps

Common Situations

Quick FAQ

What is Pattern recognition bias?

Overdetecting patterns because patterns feel useful.

What is an example of Pattern recognition bias?

A trader sees a signal in a random wiggle of prices.

How do I spot Pattern recognition bias?

What would disconfirm this pattern?