How to make a decision using a comparison table

Every step

1. 1

   List Your Options and Criteria

   Write down all your options (e.g., Bike A, Bike B, Bike C). Then make a list of features that matter: price, weight, durability, warranty. Place options across the top of a table, and criteria down the side.

   CHECKPOINT · Table with options and criteria is set up.
2. 2

   Fill in Specific Details for Each Option

   Research and record details for each column. Example: Bike A costs $300, weighs 25 lbs, has a 2-year warranty. Continue for Bikes B and C, ensuring you get actual, not estimated, data.

   CHECKPOINT · All options have complete data in the table.
3. 3

   Rate or Score Each Option

   Assign a score from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent) for each criterion. For example, if durability is most important: Bike A gets 4, B gets 5, C gets 3. This creates a consistent way to judge strengths.

   CHECKPOINT · Scores assigned in each cell.
4. 4

   Add Weights for Each Criterion

   If some features matter more, multiply each score by a weight (e.g., price 40%, durability 30%, weight 20%, warranty 10%). Example: For Bike A, price score 5 × 0.4 = 2.0.

   CHECKPOINT · Weighted scores calculated in the table.
5. 5

   Compare scores, hard constraints, and uncertainty

   Add each option’s weighted scores, then check any non-negotiable requirement such as maximum price or required compatibility. A high score cannot compensate for failing a hard constraint. If two options are close, vary uncertain scores or weights slightly and see whether the order changes. Use the table to explain your judgment rather than treating the largest number as proof.

   CHECKPOINT · Your preferred option fits the constraints and you understand which assumptions affect the choice.