Cognitive Reflection System 1 vs. System 2 Thinking Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following scenarios is the BEST example of relying on System 2 thinking?

Accepted Answer

Calculating the total cost, including taxes and a tip, for a complicated group dinner bill.

Answer

Instinctively swerving to avoid a sudden obstacle in the road.

Answer

Choosing a familiar brand of cereal at the grocery store without much thought.

Answer

Immediately recognizing the face of a close friend in a crowd.

Question 2

A classic Cognitive Reflection Test question asks: 'A bat and a ball cost $1.10 in total. The bat costs $1.00 more than the ball. How much does the ball cost?' What is the common, intuitive, but incorrect answer that demonstrates System 1 thinking?

Accepted Answer

10 cents

Answer

5 cents

Answer

$1.00

Answer

15 cents

Question 3

A project manager is faced with a minor, routine issue that is very similar to a problem solved successfully on many previous projects. According to Daniel Kahneman's model, which cognitive system is MOST likely and appropriately used to make a quick decision?

Accepted Answer

System 1, because it relies on past experiences and patterns to make fast, efficient judgments.

Answer

System 2, because all project decisions require careful analysis.

Answer

A combination of both, with System 2 verifying System 1's initial impulse.

Answer

Neither, as project management decisions fall outside the System 1/2 framework.

Question 4

The primary purpose of the Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) is to measure an individual's ability to:

Accepted Answer

Override an initial, intuitive 'gut' response and engage in more deliberate, analytical thinking.

Answer

Perform complex mathematical calculations under pressure.

Answer

Recall factual information accurately.

Answer

Solve problems creatively and think 'outside the box'.

Question 5

Which of the following characteristics is exclusively associated with System 1 thinking?

Accepted Answer

Automatic and unconscious

Answer

Slow and deliberate

Answer

Conscious and logical

Answer

Effortful and analytical

Question 6

An analyst is reviewing a complex financial report for the first time to identify potential risks and inconsistencies. This task would primarily engage which cognitive system and why?

Accepted Answer

System 2, because the task is novel, complex, and requires deliberate, focused attention.

Answer

System 1, because financial analysis relies heavily on intuition and pattern recognition.

Answer

Both systems equally, as the analyst will switch back and forth constantly.

Answer

System 1, as an experienced analyst can process such reports automatically.