The term “criterion” refers to a standard, rule, or principle used to judge or evaluate something. For example, a common criterion for college admission is a student’s high school GPA. Multiple criteria can be used in conjunction to make more complex assessments.
Establishing clear standards of judgment is essential for consistency, fairness, and informed decision-making in various fields, from education and employment to scientific research and product development. Historically, the development of standardized criteria has facilitated progress in numerous disciplines, enabling objective comparisons and fostering accountability. Careful selection and application of these standards ensure reliable evaluations and contribute to the overall quality and integrity of processes and outcomes.