also as anchoring heuristic, means that the decision maker makes a judgement by starting from an initial value(anchor) and then adjusts to make the final decision Note: Anchoring doesn't just happen with numbers; it also happens with first impressions and reputations. eg: First impressions on Sean always act as anchors for future behavior and attitudes toward him; what you hear of Sean from others can also influence and anchor the way you behave to him when you meet him.