Answers Quote by John Tukey
“An approximate answer to the right problem is worth a good deal more than an exact answer to an approximate problem.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Statistical methods, 1977
Approximate solutions to the right problem outweigh exact answers to the wrong one.
In simple terms: Right problem matters more than precision.
Key Takeaway
Focus on solving the correct issue.
Themes
problem solving
approximation
efficiency
prioritization
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
educational
technical
When to use this quote
- research
- business strategy
- engineering design
Key Concepts
statistics
decision theory
resource allocation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify the right problem?
- When is precision essential?
A Different Perspective
Exactness may be needed in safety‑critical fields.
