Decision-Making Biases

Anchoring bias

Relying too heavily on the first number, idea, or frame offered.

What Is Anchoring bias?

Anchoring bias is a thinking trap where relying too heavily on the first number, idea, or frame offered.

How It Tricks You

It can make one option feel obvious before the tradeoffs have been checked.

Real-World Example

A $120 shirt feels cheap after first seeing a $300 shirt.

Seen Online As

• The first price I saw made every other option feel expensive.
• They said it was worth $900, so $600 feels like a steal.
• That first estimate is still pulling the whole discussion.

What To Ask Instead

What would I think if I started from a different anchor?

Related Thinking Traps

• Confirmation bias
• Framing effect
• Loss aversion
• Status quo bias

Common Situations

• Thinking Traps at Work
• Thinking Traps with AI Prompts
• Thinking Traps in Money Decisions

Quick FAQ

What is Anchoring bias?

Relying too heavily on the first number, idea, or frame offered.

What is an example of Anchoring bias?

A $120 shirt feels cheap after first seeing a $300 shirt.

How do I spot Anchoring bias?

What would I think if I started from a different anchor?