Principlev1PR-463

Choose depth-first traversal when you need any solution…

Choose depth-first traversal when you need any solution quickly; choose breadth-first when you need the optimal solution.

Why This Is a Principle

Derives from Working Memory Capacity Limit (working memory limits) and Directed Attention as Depletable Resource (finite cognitive resources). DFS consumes less working memory but risks local optima; BFS guarantees finding shortest path but exhausts cognitive resources faster. This principle prescribes matching search strategy to goal type.

Source Lessons

Depth versus breadth in hierarchies

Going deep in one branch versus wide across many branches are different strategies with different costs — and the right choice depends on whether you need resolution or coverage.

Connections

Derived From (2)

AxiomWorking Memory Capacity Limit AxiomDirected Attention as Depletable Resource

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