Estimating Quote by Sherman Kent
“Estimating is what you do when you don't know.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Role of Intelligence in American Democracy, 1949
When faced with uncertainty, we resort to estimation as a practical tool for decision‑making.
In simple terms: Estimation fills gaps in knowledge.
Key Takeaway
Use estimates wisely.
Themes
uncertainty
decision making
analysis
Mood
cautious
pragmatic
Type
methodological
practical
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- military strategy
- scientific research
Key Concepts
statistics
probability
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions underlie your estimates?
- When should you seek more data?
A Different Perspective
Estimates can be misleading if data are poor.
