An algorithm is preferable to a heuristic when the priority is:

1. The two strategies differ in what they guarantee. 2. An algorithm is a problem-solving formula that provides step-by-step instructions used to achieve a desired outcome. 3. Following every step reliably reaches that outcome. 4. A heuristic is another type of problem solving strategy, trading reliability for speed. 5. So when being right matters more than being quick, the algorithm wins. _Source: OpenStax Psychology 2e (CC BY 4.0), Ch 7 'Thinking and Intelligence', sections 7.1-7.5_