Criterion

A principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided. It serves as a basis for evaluation, assessment, or comparison, often involving a set of factors or conditions used to make a reasoned judgment. Criteria can be quantitative (measurable) or qualitative (subjective) and are essential in fields ranging from scientific research to everyday decision-making. The term implies a level of importance in the decision-making process. The establishment of effective criteria is key to achieving unbiased and consistent results.

Criterion meaning with examples

• The primary Criterion for selecting the winner was creativity and originality in their approach. The judges meticulously evaluated each submission against this critical benchmark, ensuring a fair assessment of the artistic merit of the work submitted.
• Academic institutions utilize various criteria for admitting students. Grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal essays all contribute to the overall evaluation, determining acceptance into the college or university.
• The project manager used specific criteria to evaluate the team's progress, considering adherence to deadlines, budget constraints, and quality of deliverables. Any deviations were promptly addressed to mitigate the risks to the project's completion.
• When purchasing a car, fuel efficiency and safety features often serve as key buying criteria for consumers, which will usually determine the final car purchase. It is the decision-making process that determines the result of the purchase
• In scientific research, the validity and reliability of a study's methods represent important criteria for assessing its findings. Scientists must ensure they have an accurate measure of the results when presenting their evidence in a scientific journal.