To help us write with care, reference books have been developed to clarify confusing words and phrases. In this chapter, however, I want to clarify some of the technical words psychology students most frequently misuse in their papers. An algorithm is a systematic routine that eventually solves a problem. A heuristic is a short-cut routine for solving a problem that may or may not eventually solve the problem. Anxiety, fear Anxiety is a state of general apprehension.
Fear is a state of apprehension in response to a specific threat.
Applied research, basic research Applied research strives for findings of practical value. Basic research strives for findings of theoretical value, regardless of whether they have practical value. Artificial intelligence, simulation Artificial intelligence involves machines that optimally solve problems usually thought to require intelligence. Capacity, ability, performance Capacity is innate potential. Ability is how much your innate potential is developed.