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A tutorial on heuristic methods

European Journal of Operational ResearchPublished 1 September 1980Open access
Edward A. Silver, René Victor, V. A. C. Vidal, D. de Werra
Citations132
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TL;DR

This paper defines a heuristic method as a procedure for solving a well-defined mathematical problem by an intuitive approach in which the structure of the problem can be interpreted and exploited intelligently to obtain a reasonable solution.

Abstract

In this paper we define a heuristic method as a procedure for solving a well-defined mathematical problem by an intuitive approach in which the structure of the problem can be interpreted and exploited intelligently to obtain a reasonable solution. Issues discussed include: (i) the measurement of the quality of a heuristic method, (ii) different types of heuristic procedures, (iii) the interactive role of human beings and (iv) factors that may influence the choice or testing of heuristic methods. A large number of references are included.

Keywords

Computer ScienceEngineering