In this paper I will examine this technique and illustrate its use by using it to train my dog to do a simple trick. A reinforcer is something that rewards the dog and which it is willing to work for. Food and affection are examples of URs, since almost all dogs will work to obtain food and affection without being trained to desire them. The CR initially does not give pleasure by itself. An example of this is money.
Money can buy something the person truly desires such as food, toys, etc.
In essence, the CR works as a signal that the UR is now available. Short, because the more closely a signal can be timed the more effective it will be, as we will see. An instantaneous signal can be very accurately timed. A longer signal leaves doubt as to what point during the signal was the one intended. For the same reason, it is important that the signal be Ready, that is, available quickly and conveniently so that the signal can be given at exactly the right moment.