A decision tree is a very useful tool that can be applied in many different kinds of environments – from business to personal affairs. A decision tree is a kind of device that is used as an aid when making decisions. The decision tree will help assess the impact of a decision. Businessmen use decision trees in many different business applications. Schools also use them in guiding students in their career decisions. Making a decision tree is one of those life tips that will enrich your life in so many aspects.
If you want to make a decision tree to help you in your own decision making, follow the tips below:
The Theme
Before making a decision tree, you have to first identify to what purpose you’ll use it. Are you going to use it to decide on a business matter? Is it going to be for school? Or perhaps something a little more personal like marriage or parenting? Identify what it is about so you’ll know how to go about the rest of the steps in making the decision tree.
The Variables
After identifying the theme you should now zero in on the variables that you will play a part in your decision. The variables are the various circumstances or factors that you need to consider before you make a decision. These are the information that will have an effect on your decision, whatever it may be. You have to clearly identify these variables in order to make your decision tree work effectively.
The Outcomes
You have already identified all of the variables that will come into play in making various decisions. Now you need to identify the possible outcomes that will be the effect of the decisions you will make. Here, you will list down all of the foreseeable effects of whatever decision you make. Be realistic in listing what these outcomes will be. This is the final element that you identify and at this point you already have almost everything that will constitute your decision tree.
Drawing the decision tree
Having identified all of the parts that will be included in the decision tree. It is now time to draw the decision tree itself. This is a visual manifestation of the whole process you will undertake – a map of sorts that will guide you in making our decision. You can use a paint or drawing program to help you flesh out the decision tree so you can print it and distribute to other people if needed or post it on your bulletin board.