Rule of Thumb

A "rule of thumb" is a general guideline or practical principle based on experience rather than strict rules or precise measurements. It provides an approximate method for making decisions or estimations quickly and easily. While not exact, it helps people gauge or solve problems efficiently in everyday situations. For example, a common rule of thumb for cooking meat is to cook it until the juices run clear, or in construction, to measure for a cut based on past experience. It’s useful for practical, everyday judgments when detailed data isn’t necessary.