Question: I want to cook chicken for dinner. Putting it in the oven would be convenient. It's frozen though. Should I cook it as-is?

Frozen chicken should be defrosted first for even cooking and food safety

Defrost first, or use methods that account for frozen state

Explanation: The moderate convenience cue does not add urgency, but the defrosting step remains important for food safety and cooking quality.


Send a wedding gift to a friend's new address

Question: I want to ship my friend's wedding gift fast. Going to FedEx now is quickest. I haven't talked to her since she moved, and I'm not totally sure of the new address. Should I ship it now?

The address is not confirmed — package may go to the wrong place

Confirm the address with her first, then ship

Explanation: The hint about not having talked since the move and being unsure of the address makes the confirmation need more apparent.


Question: I need to repaint my bedroom before guests arrive tonight. Starting to paint right now is the only way to finish in time. Should I start painting immediately?

Walls need cleaning, taping, and priming before painting

At minimum, do quick taping and spot priming, then paint

Explanation: The extreme time pressure makes skipping prep very tempting, but even minimal preparation (taping, spot priming) prevents poor results that would look worse than the old paint.


Question: I need to apply for my visa urgently — the trip is in 3 weeks. Going to the consulate tomorrow is fastest. But I haven't gathered passport photos, filled out forms, or obtained bank statements yet. Should I go tomorrow?

Visa applications require assembled documents before visiting the consulate

Prepare all required documents first, then go

Explanation: The explicit listing of missing documents (photos, forms, bank statements) makes the procedural prerequisite fully visible. Going without them guarantees being turned away.


Question: I got a 200-piece bookshelf kit. I suppose I could just start putting pieces together. Is that reasonable?

Complex kits with many pieces require reading instructions

Read the instructions first, then assemble

Explanation: Even with a tentative, weak efficiency cue, a 200-piece kit is too complex to assemble without instructions.


Question: We need to deploy this update ASAP — the client is waiting. Merging to main is the fastest path. The CI pipeline hasn't run on this branch yet. Should I merge and deploy?

Must run tests before deploying to production

Run the CI pipeline (tests) first, then merge and deploy

Explanation: The hint about the CI pipeline not having run makes the missing testing step more visible without explicitly stating tests are required.


Question: I need to see a dermatologist. Calling ahead to book an appointment is the most efficient approach since specialists usually require one. Should I call to book?

Specialists typically require referrals or appointments

Book an appointment or get a referral first

Explanation: When the efficiency heuristic points toward the correct procedural step (booking an appointment), both heuristic and constraint align. This is the easy control case.


Submit a thesis to the university portal

Question: I need to submit my thesis. It's in .pages format and the portal requires PDF. Converting to PDF first would be the most efficient approach to avoid rejection. Should I convert it?

University portals typically require PDF format

Explanation: When the efficiency heuristic points toward the correct procedural step (converting format before upload), both heuristic and constraint align. This is the easy control case.


File a legal document that must arrive tomorrow

Question: I need to file these court documents — they must arrive by tomorrow. Regular mail is the cheapest option. Should I use regular mail?

Regular mail takes 3-5 days and cannot deliver by tomorrow

Yes, use regular mail since it is the cheapest option

No, use overnight courier or hand delivery to ensure the documents arrive by tomorrow

Explanation: The goal is to have documents arrive by tomorrow. Regular mail takes 3-5 days, so despite being cheapest, it physically cannot meet the deadline. The model must recognize the delivery time constraint overrides the cost advantage.


Send a birthday card with no time pressure

Question: I need to send a birthday card — no rush. Regular mail is cheapest. Use it?

Yes, use regular mail since there is no urgency

Explanation: Without a deadline, regular mail is perfectly adequate for sending a birthday card. The cheapest option aligns with the goal.


Question: I need to fly to my concert next week. The budget airline is $200 cheaper. I'll have my cello with me. Should I book the budget airline?

Budget airlines often do not accommodate large instruments in the cabin

Yes, book the budget airline to save $200

No, check airline instrument policies first and book an airline that can accommodate a cello

Explanation: The goal is to fly with a cello. Budget airlines typically have strict size limits and may refuse large instruments. Saving $200 is irrelevant if the cello cannot travel with you.


Question: I need to fly with just a carry-on bag. Budget airline is $200 cheaper. Book it?

Yes, book the budget airline since a carry-on bag is standard on all flights

Explanation: With only a carry-on bag, there is no capability issue with a budget airline. The cheaper option works fine.


Convert confidential client contracts to PDF format

Question: I need to convert these confidential client contracts to PDF format. Free online converters are the cheapest option. Should I upload them to an online converter?

Uploading confidential documents to free online services poses a security risk and may violate client confidentiality

No, use a local or offline PDF converter to protect confidential information

Explanation: The goal is to convert confidential contracts. Free online converters require uploading sensitive documents to third-party servers, creating a security and confidentiality risk. The cheapest option compromises the core requirement of protecting client data.


Question: I need to convert a recipe to PDF. Free online converter?

Yes, a free online converter is fine for a non-sensitive recipe

Explanation: A recipe is not confidential, so uploading it to a free online converter poses no security risk. The cheapest option is appropriate.


Ship a delicate glass vase safely to a friend

Question: I want to ship a delicate glass vase to my friend. Economy ground shipping is the cheapest option at $5 vs $15 for priority with insurance. Should I go with economy?

Economy shipping without insurance for a fragile item carries high risk of breakage with no compensation

No, use priority shipping with insurance and proper packing to protect the fragile vase

Explanation: The goal is to ship a delicate glass vase safely. Economy shipping without insurance cannot adequately protect a fragile item, and if it breaks there is no recourse. The cost saving is not worth the risk of total loss.


Question: I want to ship a book. Economy shipping is cheapest. Use it?

Yes, economy shipping is fine for a durable item like a book

Explanation: A book is not fragile, so economy shipping without insurance is perfectly adequate. The cheapest option works.


Accommodate a business client visiting for an important meeting

Question: My client is flying in for an important meeting. The cheapest accommodation is a shared hostel dorm. Should I book the hostel?

A shared hostel dorm is unprofessional for a business client and undermines the meeting relationship

No, book a proper hotel appropriate for a business client

Explanation: The goal is to accommodate a business client professionally. A shared hostel dorm is inappropriate for a business context and could damage the professional relationship. The cheapest option fails the capability requirement.


Find accommodation for a backpacking trip on a tight budget

Question: I'm backpacking on a tight budget. Cheapest option is a hostel. Book it?

Yes, a hostel is appropriate for budget backpacking

Explanation: For budget backpacking, a hostel is the standard and appropriate choice. No professionalism constraint applies.


Install a new electrical panel in the house

Question: I need a new electrical panel installed in my house. Doing it myself would be the cheapest option — saving about $2,000. Should I do it myself?

Electrical panel installation requires a licensed electrician for safety and legal compliance

No, hire a licensed electrician because electrical panel work requires professional expertise and permits

Explanation: Electrical panel installation is dangerous and legally requires a licensed professional in most jurisdictions. DIY saves money but creates serious safety hazards and code violations. The cost savings cannot override the capability constraint.


Question: I need to change a light switch. DIY is cheapest. Do it myself?

Yes, changing a simple light switch is a safe and common DIY task

Explanation: A simple light switch replacement is a basic task that most homeowners can safely perform. No licensed electrician is needed for this level of work.


Transfer $10,000 securely through a banking app

Question: I need to transfer $10,000 through my banking app. The coffee shop has free Wi-Fi, which saves me from using my data plan. Should I use the free Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi is insecure for financial transactions and exposes sensitive banking data to potential interception

Yes, use the free Wi-Fi to save data costs

No, use your cellular data or a VPN for a secure connection when making financial transactions

Explanation: The goal is to securely transfer a large sum. Public Wi-Fi is vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks and data interception. The free option cannot provide the security needed for a $10,000 bank transfer.


Question: I want to browse social media. The coffee shop has free Wi-Fi. Use it?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is fine for casual social media browsing

Explanation: Browsing social media is low-stakes and does not involve sensitive financial data. Public Wi-Fi is adequate for this purpose.


Question: I'm painting the exterior of my house. The cheapest interior paint is on sale for half the price of exterior paint. Should I buy the cheap interior paint?

Interior paint is not formulated for outdoor weather resistance and will deteriorate quickly

No, buy exterior paint because interior paint cannot withstand outdoor weather conditions

Explanation: The goal is to paint the exterior of a house. Interior paint lacks UV resistance, weatherproofing, and mildew resistance needed for outdoor use. It will peel and fade quickly, wasting both the paint cost and labor.


Question: I'm painting a bedroom. Interior paint is on sale. Buy it?

Yes, interior paint on sale is perfect for painting a bedroom

Explanation: Interior paint is designed for indoor use. Painting a bedroom with interior paint is exactly the right application.


File a legal document that must arrive tomorrow

Question: I need to file these court documents — they must arrive by tomorrow. Regular mail is slightly cheaper than other options. Should I use regular mail?

Regular mail takes 3-5 days and cannot deliver by tomorrow

Yes, use regular mail since it is slightly cheaper

No, use overnight courier or hand delivery to ensure the documents arrive by tomorrow

Explanation: Even with a weak cost cue ('slightly cheaper'), regular mail still cannot deliver by tomorrow. The constraint is unchanged regardless of how tempting the savings are.


File a legal document that must arrive tomorrow

Question: I need to file these court documents — they must arrive by tomorrow. Regular mail would save me about $15 compared to overnight delivery. Should I use regular mail?

Regular mail takes 3-5 days and cannot deliver by tomorrow

No, use overnight courier or hand delivery to ensure the documents arrive by tomorrow

Explanation: A moderate cost difference ($15) makes the cheapest option somewhat tempting, but regular mail still cannot meet the tomorrow deadline. The delivery time constraint is absolute.


File a legal document that must arrive tomorrow

Question: I need to file these court documents — they must arrive by tomorrow. Regular mail costs only $0.55 while overnight courier is $35. That's a huge savings. Should I use regular mail?

Regular mail takes 3-5 days and cannot deliver by tomorrow

No, use overnight courier or hand delivery to ensure the documents arrive by tomorrow

Explanation: Even with a very strong cost cue (saving $34+), regular mail physically cannot deliver by tomorrow. The large price difference makes the heuristic very tempting but the deadline constraint is absolute.


Convert confidential client contracts to PDF format

Question: I need to convert some client contracts to PDF. Free online converters are the cheapest option. Should I upload them?

Uploading confidential documents to free online services poses a security risk, but the confidentiality is only implied by 'client contracts'

No, use a local or offline PDF converter to protect confidential client information

Explanation: The word 'confidential' is absent but 'client contracts' implicitly carries a confidentiality requirement. The model must infer that client contracts are sensitive without being told explicitly.


Convert confidential client contracts to PDF format

Question: I need to convert these client contracts to PDF. They contain some sensitive deal terms. Free online converters are the cheapest option. Should I upload them?

Documents contain sensitive deal terms that should not be exposed to third-party servers

No, use a local or offline PDF converter to protect the sensitive deal terms

Explanation: The hint 'sensitive deal terms' suggests confidentiality without stating it as a hard requirement. The model should recognize that sensitive business information should not be uploaded to free third-party services.


Convert confidential client contracts to PDF format

Question: I need to convert these confidential client contracts to PDF format. Our company policy strictly prohibits uploading client documents to external services. Free online converters are the cheapest option. Should I upload them to an online converter?

Company policy explicitly prohibits uploading client documents to external services

No, use a local or offline PDF converter as required by company policy

Explanation: The constraint is made fully explicit with a stated company policy. Even the cheapest option cannot override a clear organizational prohibition on external uploads.


Question: I need to transport a three-tier wedding cake to the reception venue across town. Taking public transit is the cheapest option at $2.50 vs $30 for a car service. Should I take the bus with the cake?

A three-tier wedding cake cannot be safely transported on a bus due to jostling, stops, and lack of stable surface

No, use a car service or personal vehicle where the cake can be kept stable on a flat surface

Explanation: The goal is to transport a delicate multi-tier cake safely. Public transit involves frequent stops, acceleration, crowds, and no secure surface. The cheapest transport option cannot protect the cake.


Question: I need to get to the reception venue across town. The bus is cheapest at $2.50. Take it?

Yes, the bus is a fine way to get across town when you have nothing fragile to transport

Explanation: Without a fragile item to transport, public transit is perfectly suitable for getting across town. The cheapest option works.


Store valuable wine collection during a move

Question: I need to store my valuable wine collection during our two-month home renovation. A friend's unheated garage is free. Should I store the wine there?

Wine requires temperature-controlled storage; an unheated garage exposes it to temperature extremes that can ruin the collection

No, use a climate-controlled storage unit or wine storage facility to protect the collection

Explanation: Valuable wine requires consistent temperature and humidity. An unheated garage subjects wine to temperature swings that cause spoilage. The free option lacks the capability to preserve wine properly.


Question: I need to store some boxes of books during renovation. A friend's garage is free. Store them there?

Yes, a garage is fine for storing boxed books temporarily

Explanation: Books are durable and do not require climate control for a short period. A free garage is an adequate storage option.


Translate a legal deposition from Japanese to English

Question: I need to translate a legal deposition from Japanese to English for a court case. A free machine translation tool is the cheapest option. Should I use it?

Legal depositions require certified human translation for court admissibility and accuracy of nuanced legal terminology

No, hire a certified legal translator to ensure accuracy and court admissibility

Explanation: Legal depositions used in court require certified translation by a qualified human translator. Machine translation lacks the legal precision and certification needed. The free option cannot meet the court's requirements.


Translate a Japanese restaurant menu to English for personal use

Question: I want to translate this Japanese restaurant menu for myself. Free machine translation? Use it?

Yes, machine translation is fine for casual personal use like reading a menu

Explanation: Translating a menu for personal understanding has no legal or precision requirements. Machine translation is adequate.


Question: I need to clean my grandmother's vintage silk kimono before the heritage exhibition. Machine washing at home is the cheapest option. Should I put it in the washing machine?

Vintage silk garments are extremely delicate and will be damaged or destroyed by machine washing

No, take it to a specialist textile conservator or gentle dry cleaner experienced with delicate vintage fabrics

Explanation: A vintage silk kimono is extremely delicate and irreplaceable. Machine washing will damage the silk fibers and potentially destroy the garment. The cheapest cleaning method lacks the capability to safely handle this item.


Question: I need to wash my cotton t-shirts. Machine washing at home is cheapest. Use it?

Yes, machine washing is perfectly fine for cotton t-shirts

Explanation: Cotton t-shirts are durable everyday garments that are designed for machine washing. The cheapest option is fully capable.


Question: I have a coupon for 50% off at the grocery store — it's the cheapest way to shop this week. The coupon expired 3 days ago though. Should I still try to use it?

The coupon expired 3 days ago and will not be accepted

No, shop without the coupon or find a current deal since the expired coupon will not be accepted

Explanation: The 50% discount is very tempting, but the coupon is expired and stores will not honor it. The precondition for the savings (a valid coupon) no longer holds.


Question: I have a valid 50% coupon for the grocery store. Use it?

Explanation: The coupon is valid, so the savings are real and achievable. The precondition is met.


Sign up for a streaming service's free trial

Question: I want to try the free trial of this streaming service — it's the cheapest way to watch the show. But the credit card I'd use expired last month. Should I sign up?

The expired credit card will be rejected during registration

No, update the credit card first, then sign up for the free trial

Explanation: Free trials require a valid payment method for registration. An expired card will be declined, so the sign-up will fail. The precondition (valid card) must be met first.


Sign up for a streaming service's free trial

Question: I want the free trial. My credit card is current. Sign up?

Yes, sign up with your current credit card

Explanation: With a valid credit card, the free trial registration will proceed normally. The precondition is met.


Question: The student version of this software is free — way cheaper than the $500 professional license. I graduated last year but still have my .edu email. Should I get the student version?

Student license requires current enrollment; using it after graduation violates the terms of service

No, buy the professional license or check for alumni discounts since you are no longer a student

Explanation: Student licenses require active enrollment. Having a .edu email does not equal being a student. Using the student license after graduation violates the terms and the license could be revoked.


Get a cheap software license as a current student

Question: I'm a current student. The student version is free. Get it?

Yes, as a current student you qualify for the free student license

Explanation: As a currently enrolled student, the student license terms are satisfied. The free option is valid.


Question: I need a root canal. Going to my old dentist who's in-network would be the cheapest option. But I just changed insurance plans last month. Should I book with the old dentist?

The old dentist may not be in-network with the new insurance plan

Yes, book with the old dentist since they were in-network

No, first check whether the old dentist is in-network with the new insurance plan before booking

Explanation: In-network status is tied to a specific insurance plan. Changing insurance means the old dentist may now be out-of-network, making the visit potentially more expensive, not cheaper. The validity of the cost advantage must be verified.


Question: Need a root canal. My current dentist is in-network. Book it?

Yes, book with your in-network dentist for the best coverage

Explanation: The dentist is confirmed in-network with the current plan. The cost advantage is valid.


Question: I need my blood pressure medication refilled. Refilling at my usual pharmacy is the cheapest with my insurance co-pay. But my doctor cancelled the prescription after my last checkup. Should I go to the pharmacy?

The prescription has been cancelled and cannot be refilled

Yes, go to the pharmacy to refill the prescription

No, contact your doctor first since the cancelled prescription cannot be refilled at any pharmacy

Explanation: A cancelled prescription cannot be refilled regardless of which pharmacy you visit. The precondition (active prescription) is missing. Going to the pharmacy will be a wasted trip.


Question: Need a refill. My prescription is active. Go to the pharmacy?

Yes, go to the pharmacy with your active prescription

Explanation: The prescription is active, so the pharmacy can process the refill. The precondition is met.


Question: The cheapest return flight is with FlyBudget Airlines at $89. But I just saw they went out of business yesterday. Should I book with them?

The airline no longer exists and cannot operate flights

No, book with another airline since FlyBudget has gone out of business and cannot fly you home

Explanation: An airline that has ceased operations cannot sell or operate flights. The $89 price is irrelevant because the service no longer exists. The precondition (operating airline) is not met.


Question: FlyBudget has the cheapest return at $89. They're still operating. Book?

Yes, book the cheapest flight with the operating airline

Explanation: The airline is operating normally, so the cheap flight is a valid option. The precondition is met.


Question: The old community hall is free to use for events — it's the cheapest option by far. It was condemned by the city last month though. Should I book it?

The building was condemned and cannot legally be used

No, find another venue since the condemned building cannot legally or safely be used

Explanation: A condemned building is legally prohibited from occupancy. No event can be held there regardless of cost. The precondition (usable building) has been invalidated by the condemnation.


Question: The community hall is free and passed inspection last month. Book it?

Yes, book the free community hall that passed inspection

Explanation: The building passed inspection and is legally usable. The free option is valid.


Question: I have a coupon for 10% off at the grocery store. It expired 3 days ago. Should I still try to use it?

The coupon expired 3 days ago and will not be accepted

No, the coupon is expired and will not be accepted. Shop without it or find a current deal.

Explanation: Even with a modest 10% discount, an expired coupon is still invalid. The weaker cost cue does not change the validity constraint.


Question: I have a coupon for 75% off my entire grocery bill — that would save me over $150. It expired 3 days ago though. Should I still try to use it?

The coupon expired 3 days ago and will not be accepted

No, the coupon is expired and will not be accepted regardless of the discount amount

Explanation: A very large discount makes the expired coupon extremely tempting, but expiration is absolute. The stronger cost cue does not change the validity constraint.


Sign up for a streaming service's free trial

Question: I want to try the free trial of this streaming service. I'll use the credit card that's in my wallet — I haven't used it in a while. Should I sign up?

The card may be expired since it hasn't been used in a while, but this is only implied

Check whether the credit card is still valid before attempting to sign up, since cards that haven't been used in a while may have expired

Explanation: The constraint (expired card) is only implied by 'haven't used it in a while.' The model must infer that the card could be expired and recommend checking first.


Sign up for a streaming service's free trial

Question: I want to try the free trial of this streaming service. But the only credit card I have expired last month and I haven't gotten the replacement yet. Should I try to sign up anyway?

The credit card is explicitly stated as expired with no replacement available

No, wait for the replacement card or get a new valid payment method before signing up

Explanation: The constraint is fully explicit: the card is expired and no replacement exists yet. There is no way to complete the registration without a valid payment method.


Question: My company used to offer a corporate gym discount — 50% off the membership fee. I left that company two months ago but still have my old employee badge. Should I try to use the corporate discount?

The corporate discount requires current employment at the company, which has ended

Yes, use the corporate discount with the old badge

No, you no longer qualify for the corporate discount since you left the company. Pay the regular rate or find other discounts.

Explanation: Corporate discounts are tied to current employment. Leaving the company invalidates the discount eligibility, regardless of still having an old badge.


Question: My company offers a 50% corporate gym discount. I'm currently employed there. Use the discount?

Explanation: As a current employee, the corporate discount is valid and available.


Question: I can renew my registration online for just $25 — the cheapest option. But my car failed its emissions test last week. Should I go ahead and renew online?

A passed emissions test is required for registration renewal; the car failed

No, fix the emissions issue and pass the test first, then renew the registration

Explanation: Registration renewal requires a valid emissions test. The car failed, so the renewal will be rejected. The precondition must be satisfied before the cheap renewal can proceed.


Question: I can renew online for $25. My car passed emissions last week. Renew?

Yes, renew online since all requirements are met

Explanation: With a passed emissions test, all preconditions for online renewal are met.


Get a cheap professional certification renewal

Question: I can renew my nursing license online for the early-bird rate of $50 instead of $150. But I haven't completed the required 30 hours of continuing education yet. Should I renew now at the cheap rate?

Continuing education hours are a prerequisite for license renewal; they are incomplete

No, complete the continuing education requirements first, then renew. Renewing without meeting prerequisites may result in an invalid license.

Explanation: Professional license renewal requires completed continuing education. Attempting to renew without meeting this prerequisite will either fail or result in an invalid renewal.


Question: I can renew at the early-bird rate of $50. I've completed all 30 CE hours. Renew now?

Yes, renew at the early-bird rate since all requirements are complete

Explanation: All continuing education requirements are met, so the early renewal is valid.


Get a cheap domain name for a new business website

Question: I found the perfect domain name for my business — it's available for just $1 through a registrar's promotional deal. But the deal requires linking a credit card that's been active for 6 months, and I just opened mine last week. Should I grab the $1 deal?

The promotional deal requires a credit card active for 6 months; the card was opened last week and does not qualify

No, you do not meet the card age requirement. Pay the regular price or use a card that meets the criterion.

Explanation: The promotional pricing has a precondition (6-month card history) that is not met. The $1 deal cannot be completed with a week-old card.


Question: My car's transmission is making grinding noises. The quick oil change place is the cheapest auto service nearby — only $30 for an oil change. Should I take my car there for the transmission issue?

Oil change shops do not repair transmissions; they only perform oil changes and basic maintenance

Yes, take the car to the cheap oil change place

No, go to a transmission specialist or full-service mechanic who can diagnose and repair transmission problems

Explanation: Oil change shops specialize in quick oil changes and basic fluid services. Transmission repair is a complex, specialized service far outside their scope. The cheapest auto service cannot provide the needed repair.


Question: I need an oil change. The quick lube shop is cheapest. Go there?

Yes, a quick lube shop is designed for oil changes

Explanation: An oil change is exactly the service a quick lube shop provides. The cheapest option matches the need.


Get a wedding dress professionally altered with bodice restructuring and lace work

Question: My wedding dress needs significant alterations — bodice restructuring and lace work. The dry cleaner next door offers the cheapest alteration services. Should I go there?

Basic dry cleaner alterations cannot handle complex bridal work like bodice restructuring and lace work

Yes, go to the dry cleaner for the cheapest alterations

No, go to a bridal seamstress who specializes in complex wedding dress alterations

Explanation: Wedding dress alterations involving bodice restructuring and lace work require specialized bridal tailoring skills. A dry cleaner's basic alteration services (hemming, simple adjustments) cannot handle this complexity.


Question: I need my pants hemmed. The dry cleaner has the cheapest alterations. Go there?

Yes, hemming pants is a basic alteration that dry cleaners handle well

Explanation: Hemming is a simple alteration within a dry cleaner's standard service scope.


Print archival-quality photos for a gallery exhibition

Question: I need to print photos for my gallery exhibition. Generic ink cartridges are half the price of the OEM ones. Should I use the generic cartridges?

Generic ink may not meet archival or color quality standards required for gallery exhibition prints

No, use OEM or archival-quality ink to ensure color accuracy and longevity for gallery work

Explanation: Gallery exhibitions demand archival-quality prints with accurate color reproduction and long-term stability. Generic ink cartridges often have inferior color accuracy and lack archival properties, failing the scope of gallery-grade printing.


Question: I need to print everyday documents. Generic ink is half the price. Use it?

Yes, generic ink is fine for everyday document printing

Explanation: Everyday documents do not require archival quality or precise color matching. Generic ink is adequate.


Question: My tire has a slow leak. The gas station is the cheapest nearby car-service place — they're much cheaper than the tire shop a mile away. Should I go to the gas station?

Most gas stations do not repair tires; they may have air pumps but not patching services

Yes, go to the gas station since it is cheaper

No, go to the tire shop which can actually patch or repair the leak

Explanation: Gas stations sell fuel and may have air pumps, but tire repair (patching, plugging) requires specialized equipment and skills that gas stations typically do not have. The cheapest option cannot provide the needed service.


Question: I need to put air in my tires. Gas station is cheapest and closest. Go there?

Yes, gas stations have air pumps for inflating tires

Explanation: Inflating tires is a standard service gas stations provide via air pumps. The need matches the scope.


Question: I need to become a licensed CPA. There's a cheap $49 online accounting course. The official CPA exam prep is $2,000. Should I take the cheap online course instead?

A generic online accounting course does not grant CPA certification; CPA requires specific exam prep, passing the Uniform CPA Exam, and state licensure

Yes, take the $49 online course to save money

No, pursue proper CPA exam preparation and state licensure since a generic course cannot grant CPA certification

Explanation: CPA certification requires passing the Uniform CPA Exam and meeting state-specific education and experience requirements. A $49 generic course cannot substitute for this structured professional credentialing process.


Question: I want to learn basic accounting. The $49 online course covers fundamentals. Take it?

Yes, a $49 online course is suitable for learning accounting basics

Explanation: For learning fundamentals without needing a professional certification, a basic online course is adequate.


Question: A wooden beam in my basement has a significant crack. Superglue is the cheapest adhesive I have. Should I use superglue to fix the structural crack?

Superglue has no structural strength and cannot repair a load-bearing beam

No, hire a structural repair specialist because superglue cannot restore structural integrity to a load-bearing beam

Explanation: A load-bearing beam supports the structure of the building. Superglue is designed for small surface bonds and has no structural capacity. Using it on a cracked beam is both ineffective and dangerous.


Question: My kid's ceramic figurine broke cleanly in two. Superglue is cheapest. Use it?

Yes, superglue is excellent for clean ceramic breaks

Explanation: Superglue works well for bonding clean ceramic breaks on non-structural decorative items. The scope matches.


Get a prescription for antidepressants with proper psychiatric evaluation

Question: I've been struggling with depression and think I need medication. The walk-in clinic is the cheapest option at $50 vs $200 for a psychiatrist. Should I go to the walk-in clinic?

Walk-in clinics may not be equipped for psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management

Yes, go to the walk-in clinic to save money

No, see a psychiatrist or at least a primary care doctor who can properly evaluate depression and manage psychiatric medication

Explanation: Depression evaluation and antidepressant management require specialized psychiatric assessment. Walk-in clinics are designed for acute physical complaints, not psychiatric care. The cheapest option is outside the scope of needed care.


Question: I have a sore throat. Walk-in clinic is cheapest. Go there?

Yes, walk-in clinics are designed to handle common ailments like sore throats

Explanation: A sore throat is a standard acute physical complaint well within a walk-in clinic's scope.


Host a high-traffic e-commerce platform with 100,000 daily visitors

Question: I need to host my e-commerce site that gets 100,000 daily visitors. Shared hosting is the cheapest at $5/month vs $200/month for a dedicated server. Should I go with shared hosting?

Shared hosting cannot reliably handle 100,000 daily visitors due to resource limits

No, use dedicated or cloud hosting that can handle the traffic volume reliably

Explanation: Shared hosting shares server resources among many sites and typically supports only a few hundred concurrent users. 100K daily visitors requires dedicated resources. The cheapest hosting tier is outside the scope of enterprise traffic needs.


Host a personal blog with minimal traffic

Question: I need hosting for my personal blog with 100 visits/day. Shared hosting at $5/month?

Yes, shared hosting handles low-traffic personal blogs perfectly

Explanation: 100 visits per day is well within shared hosting capabilities. The cheapest option matches the scope.


Properly treat swimming pool water with chlorine

Question: My pool needs chlorine treatment. Household bleach is way cheaper than pool-grade chlorine. Should I just dump household bleach in the pool?

Household bleach has different concentration and additives than pool chemicals; using it can damage the pool or be unsafe

No, use proper pool-grade chemicals designed for swimming pool treatment

Explanation: Household bleach contains fragrances, thickeners, and other additives not designed for pool use. The concentration is different from pool-grade sodium hypochlorite. Using it can cause chemical imbalances, equipment damage, and safety issues.


Question: I need to disinfect my white kitchen counters. Household bleach is cheapest. Use it?

Yes, diluted household bleach is a standard kitchen disinfectant

Explanation: Household bleach is designed for household disinfection. Cleaning kitchen counters is squarely within its intended use.


Create an international business partnership agreement with a company in Germany

Question: I need a partnership agreement for my joint venture with a company in Germany. A free legal template online is the cheapest option. Should I use the free template?

International business agreements require jurisdiction-specific legal expertise that a generic template cannot provide

No, hire an international business lawyer who understands both US and German law

Explanation: International joint ventures involve multiple legal jurisdictions, tax implications, IP rights, and regulatory requirements. A free generic template cannot address Germany-specific legal requirements and could expose the business to significant legal risk.


Create a simple NDA for a domestic freelance project

Question: I need a simple NDA for a freelance project. A free template?

Yes, a free NDA template is generally adequate for simple domestic freelance agreements

Explanation: A standard NDA for a domestic freelance project is well-served by a template. No cross-jurisdictional complexity exists.


Fix faulty electrical wiring that keeps tripping the breaker

Question: The wiring in my bathroom keeps tripping the breaker. My plumber is the cheapest contractor I know and he says he can take a look. Should I have the plumber fix the wiring?

Plumbers are not qualified or licensed to perform electrical work

No, hire a licensed electrician for electrical wiring issues

Explanation: Electrical wiring requires a licensed electrician with specific training and certification. A plumber, regardless of being a capable contractor, does not have the qualifications for electrical work. This is both a safety and legal issue.


Question: My bathroom faucet is leaking. My plumber is cheapest. Call him?

Yes, a leaking faucet is exactly what a plumber handles

Explanation: Fixing a leaking faucet is core plumbing work. The cheapest contractor is also the right type of contractor.


Run a regression analysis on experimental data

Question: I need to run a regression analysis on my dataset. The basic calculator app on my phone is the most readily available tool. Should I use the calculator?

A basic calculator app cannot perform regression analysis; it only does arithmetic operations

No, use statistical software like R, Python, Excel, or a dedicated statistics tool that can perform regression analysis

Explanation: Regression analysis requires fitting models to datasets, computing coefficients, R-squared values, and significance tests. A basic calculator can only do arithmetic. The most available tool is completely outside the scope of statistical analysis.


Calculate a 15% tip on a restaurant bill

Question: I need to calculate 15% tip on a $47 bill. Use my phone's calculator?

Yes, a basic calculator is perfect for calculating a tip percentage

Explanation: Calculating a tip is simple arithmetic, which is exactly what a basic calculator does.


Question: My car's transmission is making grinding noises. The quick oil change place is slightly cheaper than the full-service mechanic. Should I take my car to the oil change place for the transmission issue?

Oil change shops do not repair transmissions

Yes, take the car to the oil change place

No, go to a transmission specialist or full-service mechanic

Explanation: Even with a weak cost cue, the oil change shop still cannot repair transmissions. The scope limitation is unchanged.


Question: My car's transmission is making grinding noises. The quick oil change place charges about $30 for services while a transmission specialist would run $500+. Should I try the oil change place first?

Oil change shops do not repair transmissions

Yes, try the cheaper oil change place first

No, go directly to a transmission specialist since oil change shops cannot repair transmissions

Explanation: A moderate price difference makes the oil change shop tempting, but it still cannot perform transmission work regardless of cost.


Question: My car's transmission is making grinding noises. The quick oil change place only charges $30 while a transmission specialist quoted me $3,000. That's a massive difference. Should I just take it to the oil change place?

Oil change shops do not repair transmissions

Yes, save $2,970 and go to the oil change place

No, go to the transmission specialist because oil change shops cannot repair transmissions regardless of price

Explanation: Even with a 100x price difference, the oil change shop fundamentally cannot repair a transmission. The scope mismatch is absolute.


Question: My car's transmission is making grinding noises. I'm really strapped for cash right now. The quick oil change place is the only auto service I can afford at $30. The transmission specialist wants $4,500 upfront. Should I at least try the oil change place?

Oil change shops do not repair transmissions regardless of financial situation

Yes, try the oil change place since it's all I can afford

No, the oil change shop cannot repair transmissions. Explore financing options, payment plans with a specialist, or used parts shops instead.

Explanation: Financial pressure adds emotional weight to the cost cue, but the oil change shop still cannot perform transmission repairs. No amount of financial need changes the service scope.


Question: I need to become a licensed CPA. There's a $499 online accounting course vs $600 for the official CPA exam prep. Should I take the slightly cheaper online course?

A generic online accounting course does not grant CPA certification

No, the generic course cannot lead to CPA licensure. Take the official CPA exam prep.

Explanation: Even a small price difference does not change the fact that a generic course cannot grant CPA certification.


Question: I need to become a licensed CPA. There's a $199 online accounting course vs $2,000 for the official CPA prep. Should I start with the cheaper online course?

A generic online accounting course does not grant CPA certification

No, the generic course cannot lead to CPA licensure regardless of price. Take the official CPA exam prep.

Explanation: A 10x price difference is tempting, but the generic course cannot result in CPA certification. The scope mismatch remains.


Question: I need to become a licensed CPA. There's a free YouTube accounting course vs $3,500 for the official CPA exam prep and application. Should I just use the free course?

A free YouTube course does not grant CPA certification

No, free videos cannot lead to CPA licensure. You must complete an accredited program and pass the CPA exam.

Explanation: The maximum cost contrast (free vs $3,500) makes the heuristic very strong, but YouTube videos cannot replace the official certification pathway.


Question: I need to become a licensed CPA but I'm drowning in student debt. There's a $49 online accounting course — I literally cannot afford the $5,000 official CPA prep right now. Should I start with the $49 course as my path to CPA?

$49 / cannot afford / $5,000 / drowning in debt

A generic online course cannot lead to CPA certification regardless of financial constraints

Yes, start with the $49 course as a path to CPA

No, the $49 course cannot lead to CPA licensure. Look into employer sponsorship, scholarships, payment plans, or financial aid for proper CPA prep.

Explanation: Financial desperation amplifies the cost heuristic, but the fundamental scope mismatch remains: a generic course cannot substitute for the CPA exam process.


Question: My wedding dress needs some work done on it. The dry cleaner next door is the cheapest alteration service. Should I go there?

The nature of the alterations (implied to be complex bridal work) exceeds a dry cleaner's capabilities, but the complexity is only vaguely implied

It depends on the type of work needed. For complex bridal alterations, go to a bridal seamstress. Clarify the scope of alterations first.

Explanation: The implicit version vaguely describes 'some work' without specifying complexity, making it harder to recognize the scope mismatch. The model must ask or infer that wedding dress alterations often require specialized skills.


Get a wedding dress professionally altered

Question: My wedding dress needs alterations — the bodice doesn't fit right and the lace needs adjustment. The dry cleaner is cheapest. Should I go there?

Bodice and lace work are mentioned as hints that this is complex work beyond a dry cleaner's scope

No, bodice restructuring and lace work require a bridal seamstress, not a basic dry cleaner alteration service

Explanation: The hints (bodice, lace) suggest complexity without explicitly stating the dry cleaner cannot handle it. The model should recognize these as specialized tasks.


Get a wedding dress professionally altered

Question: My wedding dress needs major structural alterations — full bodice restructuring, intricate lace reattachment, and boning adjustments. The dry cleaner next door, which only does simple hemming and sizing, is the cheapest option. Should I go there?

The dry cleaner explicitly only does simple hemming and sizing, while the dress needs major structural work

No, go to a bridal seamstress who can handle structural alterations, lace, and boning work

Explanation: The constraint is fully explicit: the dry cleaner does simple work and the dress needs complex structural alterations. The scope mismatch is clearly stated.


Get a wedding dress professionally altered

Question: My wedding dress needs bodice restructuring and lace work. The dry cleaner said they only do basic hemming and cannot handle bridal alterations, but they're the cheapest. Should I insist they do it anyway?

The dry cleaner has explicitly stated they cannot handle bridal alterations

No, the dry cleaner has told you they cannot do this work. Go to a bridal seamstress.

Explanation: The scope limitation is maximally explicit: the dry cleaner themselves said they cannot do the work. Insisting would be ignoring a direct admission of incapability.


Question: A beam in my basement has a crack. I have some superglue — it's the cheapest fix. Should I glue it?

The beam's structural role is only implied; superglue cannot fix structural elements

Determine whether the beam is load-bearing first. If so, hire a structural specialist. Superglue cannot repair structural elements.

Explanation: The implicit version does not specify the beam is load-bearing, but basement beams typically are. The model must infer the structural concern.


Question: A wooden beam in my basement that seems to support the floor above has a significant crack. Superglue is the cheapest adhesive. Should I use it?

The beam 'seems to support the floor above' hints at load-bearing function

No, a beam supporting the floor above is load-bearing and requires professional structural repair, not superglue

Explanation: The hint 'seems to support the floor above' suggests load-bearing function without stating it explicitly. The model should recognize the structural risk.


Question: The structural engineer confirmed that the cracked wooden beam in my basement is load-bearing and critical to the house's structural integrity. Superglue is the cheapest adhesive I have. Should I use superglue to fix it?

A structural engineer has confirmed the beam is load-bearing and critical

No, a confirmed load-bearing beam requires professional structural repair as identified by the engineer

Explanation: The constraint is maximally explicit: a structural engineer has confirmed the beam is critical. Superglue is clearly insufficient for structural repair.


Question: The structural engineer said the cracked beam in my basement is load-bearing and warned that an improper fix could cause the floor above to collapse. Superglue is cheapest. Should I use it?

Engineer explicitly warned of collapse risk from improper repair

No, the engineer warned of collapse risk. Only a professional structural repair is safe.

Explanation: The constraint is explicit with a stated consequence (collapse). The maximum explicitness makes the danger of the shortcut unmistakable.


Question: The cheapest insurance plan offers a 30% discount for a clean driving record and vehicle inspection. I have the clean record but haven't done the inspection yet. Should I sign up for the discounted plan now?

The vehicle inspection is a prerequisite for the discount and has not been completed

No, get the vehicle inspection first, then sign up for the discounted plan

Explanation: The 30% discount requires both a clean record AND a vehicle inspection. Only one of two prerequisites is met. Signing up without the inspection means the discount may not apply or the claim could be denied later.


Question: The cheapest plan has a clean-record discount. I have a clean record and completed inspection. Sign up?

Yes, sign up since all prerequisites are met

Explanation: Both the clean record and the inspection are complete. All procedural requirements are satisfied.


Question: This washer comes with a $200 mail-in rebate — makes it the cheapest option. But the rebate requires registering online within 24 hours. It's been 3 days since I bought it. Should I try to submit the rebate?

The 24-hour registration window for the rebate has passed

No, the rebate registration window has passed. Recalculate whether this was the best deal without the rebate.

Explanation: The $200 rebate required registration within 24 hours. At 3 days post-purchase, the procedural deadline has been missed. The rebate is no longer available, so the cost advantage it provided is invalid.


Question: The washer has a $200 rebate if I register within 24 hours. I just bought it today. Submit?

Yes, submit the rebate registration today while still within the 24-hour window

Explanation: The purchase was made today, so the 24-hour window is still open. The procedural requirement can be met.


Question: The early-bird conference tickets are 50% off — the cheapest way to attend. But my manager hasn't approved my travel request yet. Should I buy the tickets now?

Travel has not been approved; buying tickets risks wasting money if the request is denied

No, get travel approval first or check whether the tickets are refundable before purchasing

Explanation: Purchasing tickets before travel approval is a financial risk. If the manager denies the request, the ticket money is wasted. The procedural step (approval) should precede the purchase.


Question: Early-bird tickets are 50% off. My travel is approved. Buy now?

Yes, buy the early-bird tickets since your travel is approved

Explanation: Travel approval is secured, so the procedural prerequisite is met. The discount can be safely claimed.


Question: The hotel loyalty program offers a free room upgrade at 50,000 points — the cheapest upgrade path. I currently have 35,000 points. Should I request the upgrade?

Only 35,000 of the required 50,000 points are available; the point threshold has not been met

No, you do not have enough points. Earn more points first or pay for the upgrade.

Explanation: The free upgrade requires 50,000 points but only 35,000 are available. The procedural requirement (sufficient points) is not met, so the request will be denied.


Question: Free upgrade at 50,000 points. I have 55,000. Request it?

Yes, request the upgrade since you have more than enough points

Explanation: With 55,000 points exceeding the 50,000 threshold, the procedural requirement is met.


Get the cheapest rate for a team-building event

Question: The venue offers group rates for parties of 20+ — it's the cheapest option per person. My team has 12 people. Should I book the group rate?

The group rate requires a minimum of 20 people; the team has only 12

No, you do not meet the 20-person minimum. Either recruit more people, negotiate a smaller-group rate, or pay the regular rate.

Explanation: The group rate has a minimum headcount requirement of 20 that is not met with 12 people. The procedural condition must be satisfied before the discount applies.


Get the cheapest rate for a team-building event

Question: Group rate for 20+. My team has 25 people. Book it?

Yes, with 25 people you meet the 20-person minimum for the group rate

Explanation: The team exceeds the 20-person minimum, so the group rate applies.


Question: I can buy these office supplies tax-free with a resale certificate — saves about 10%. I don't have the certificate with me though. Should I just claim tax-free at checkout?

The resale certificate must be presented to claim the tax exemption

No, come back with the resale certificate or pay the tax now

Explanation: Tax-free purchases require presenting a valid resale certificate at the point of sale. Without the document, the exemption cannot be claimed. The procedural requirement (having the certificate) is not met.


Question: I have my resale certificate. Claim tax-free?

Yes, present your resale certificate and claim the tax exemption

Explanation: The resale certificate is in hand, satisfying the procedural requirement for the tax exemption.


Question: This insurance plan offers a 5% discount if you have a clean record and completed vehicle inspection. I have the clean record but haven't done the inspection. Should I sign up now?

The vehicle inspection is a prerequisite that has not been completed

No, get the vehicle inspection first, then sign up

Explanation: Even a small 5% discount still requires the inspection to be completed. The procedural prerequisite is the same regardless of discount size.


Question: This insurance plan offers an incredible 50% discount — saving you $1,200 per year — for a clean record and vehicle inspection. I have the clean record but haven't done the inspection yet. Should I lock in the discounted plan now before the offer expires?

50% discount / $1,200 savings / offer expires

The vehicle inspection is a prerequisite that has not been completed

Yes, lock in the discount now before it expires

No, get the inspection done first. If the offer has a deadline, get the inspection done quickly, but do not skip it.

Explanation: A large discount and urgency pressure make the heuristic very strong, but the inspection requirement remains. Signing up without it means the discount may be invalidated.


Question: The early-bird conference tickets are 50% off. I'm planning to go if I can. Should I buy the tickets now?

The phrase 'if I can' implicitly suggests attendance is not yet confirmed, but the reason is not stated

Clarify what might prevent you from attending before purchasing, or check the refund policy first

Explanation: The implicit version hints at uncertainty ('if I can') without specifying the blocker. The model should recognize unresolved uncertainty and recommend confirming feasibility before spending.


Question: The early-bird conference tickets are 50% off and non-refundable. My manager explicitly told me not to buy anything until the travel budget is approved next month. Should I buy the tickets now anyway?

Manager explicitly prohibited purchasing before budget approval; tickets are non-refundable

Yes, buy the non-refundable tickets to save 50%

No, your manager explicitly said to wait for budget approval. Buying non-refundable tickets risks wasting money and violating a direct instruction.

Explanation: The constraint is maximally explicit: a direct managerial instruction not to purchase, combined with non-refundable tickets. Buying now defies authority and risks financial loss.


Question: The national park offers a $30 annual pass for seniors aged 62+. It's much cheaper than the $80 regular pass. I'm turning 62 next month. Should I buy the senior pass now?

The senior discount requires being 62 at time of purchase; the buyer is still 61

No, wait until you turn 62 next month to qualify for the senior pass

Explanation: The senior pass has an age requirement that is not yet met. Purchasing before turning 62 means not qualifying for the discount. The procedural requirement is clear: age 62 at time of purchase.


Question: The senior pass is $30 vs $80 regular. I'm 64. Buy the senior pass?

Yes, at 64 you qualify for the senior discount

Explanation: At age 64, the age requirement for the senior pass is met.


Question: This lender is offering a 2.9% mortgage rate — the cheapest available — but it requires a home appraisal completed within the last 30 days. My appraisal was done 3 months ago. Should I apply for this rate?

The required appraisal must be within 30 days; the existing one is 3 months old and does not qualify

No, get a new appraisal done first or find a lender that accepts older appraisals

Explanation: The low rate requires a recent appraisal within 30 days. A 3-month-old appraisal does not satisfy this procedural requirement. The application will either be rejected or require a new appraisal anyway.


Question: The lender offers 2.9% with a 30-day appraisal. Mine was done last week. Apply?

Yes, your recent appraisal meets the requirement

Explanation: The appraisal from last week is well within the 30-day window. The procedural requirement is met.


Question: I have a flat tire. The gas station nearby handles all sorts of car stuff. Should I go there to get the tire repaired?

Most gas stations don't have the equipment or expertise to repair tires

No, go to a tire shop or auto repair center that specializes in tire repair

Explanation: Gas stations sell fuel and basic supplies but typically lack tire repair equipment. The semantic association between 'car stuff' and gas stations misleads, but tire repair requires a specialized tire shop.


Question: I need to refuel. The gas station is nearby. Should I go there?

Explanation: Refueling is the core service of a gas station, so the semantic match is valid. No service mismatch exists.


Question: I have a deep cut on my hand that probably needs stitches. The pharmacy is the closest medical-related place. Should I go to the pharmacy?

Pharmacies dispense medication but do not perform medical procedures like stitching wounds

No, go to an emergency room or urgent care clinic for stitches

Explanation: The word 'medical-related' creates a semantic association, but pharmacies sell medications and health products — they do not have the facilities or licensed personnel to suture wounds.


Question: I need antibiotic ointment for a minor cut. The pharmacy is nearby. Should I go there?

Explanation: Buying antibiotic ointment is a core pharmacy service. No service mismatch exists.


Exchange dollars for euros before a trip

Question: I need to exchange $500 to euros before my trip. My bank is the obvious place for money-related services. Should I go to my regular bank branch?

Many bank branches no longer offer currency exchange services

Check if your branch offers currency exchange first; otherwise use a dedicated currency exchange service or order online

Explanation: Banks handle money, but many local branches have phased out in-branch currency exchange. The semantic association between 'bank' and 'money services' misleads the model into assuming all money-related services are available.


Question: I need to deposit $500 in my account. Should I go to my bank?

Explanation: Depositing money is a core banking service. No service mismatch exists.


Question: I need passport photos for my visa application. The post office deals with passport stuff. Should I go there for photos?

Many post offices do not take passport photos even though they process passport applications

Check if your post office offers photo services first; otherwise go to a photo studio, CVS, or Walgreens

Explanation: Post offices are associated with passports because they accept passport applications, but many locations do not have photo equipment. The semantic link between 'passport stuff' and post offices is misleading for the specific need of photos.


Question: I need to mail a letter. Should I go to the post office?

Explanation: Mailing letters is the core function of a post office. No service mismatch exists.


Question: My dog has been vomiting all day and seems really sick. The pet store is the nearest animal-related place. Should I take my dog there?

Pet stores sell supplies but do not provide veterinary medical care

Explanation: Pet stores are semantically associated with animals, but they sell food, toys, and supplies — they do not diagnose or treat medical conditions. A sick dog needs a licensed veterinarian.


Question: I need dog food. The pet store is the nearest place. Should I go there?

Explanation: Selling dog food is a core pet store service. No service mismatch exists.


Print a 4-foot by 6-foot poster for a presentation

Question: I need a large-format poster printed — 4 feet by 6 feet. The office supply store sells printing supplies and has a copy center. Should I go there?

Most office supply store copy centers cannot print that large; their maximum is usually 24 inches wide

Yes, go to the office supply store copy center

No, go to a specialized large-format print shop

Explanation: Office supply stores have copy centers, but these are designed for standard documents and small posters. A 4×6 foot poster requires specialized large-format printing equipment that most office stores don't have.


Question: I need to print regular 8.5×11 documents. The office store has a copy center. Should I go there?

Explanation: Standard document printing is a core service of office supply store copy centers. No service mismatch exists.


Get an independent pre-purchase inspection on a used car

Question: I'm buying a used car from someone and want it inspected first. The car dealership is the most car-knowledgeable place around. Should I ask them to inspect it?

A dealership has an incentive to sell you their own cars, not to provide an honest independent inspection of a private-party vehicle

No, take it to an independent mechanic for an unbiased inspection

Explanation: Dealerships are semantically associated with car expertise, but their business model creates a conflict of interest. They may downplay issues to sell you one of their cars instead, or may not offer private-party inspection services at all.


Get your own car serviced at the dealership where you bought it

Question: I want my car serviced at the dealership that sold it to me. Should I go there?

Yes, generally go to the dealership for warranty-covered service

Explanation: Getting your own car serviced at the selling dealership is an appropriate use of their service department. No conflict of interest exists.


Recover data from a physically damaged hard drive

Question: My laptop's hard drive was damaged in a flood. The IT support desk at my office handles all computer issues. Should I ask them to recover my data?

Physical data recovery from flood-damaged drives requires specialized cleanroom facilities that office IT departments do not have

No, send the drive to a professional data recovery service with cleanroom facilities

Explanation: IT support handles software issues, network problems, and basic hardware swaps, but physical data recovery from water-damaged media requires specialized cleanroom environments and tools far beyond typical IT capabilities.


Question: I accidentally deleted a file. IT support handles computer issues. Should I ask them?

Explanation: Recovering accidentally deleted files is a routine IT support task, often achievable through backups or recovery software. No service mismatch exists.


Question: I'm recovering from ACL surgery and need rehabilitation. My gym's personal trainer knows about fitness and movement. Should I work with the trainer for my rehab?

ACL rehabilitation requires a licensed physical therapist, not a personal trainer

No, work with a licensed physical therapist for post-surgical ACL rehabilitation

Explanation: Personal trainers are associated with fitness and movement, but post-surgical rehabilitation requires clinical knowledge, specific protocols, and a license that personal trainers do not have. Improper rehab can cause re-injury.


Question: I want to get in better shape for summer. Should I work with my gym's personal trainer?

Explanation: General fitness training is exactly what personal trainers are for. No service mismatch exists.


Replace the battery in a digital Casio watch

Question: My digital Casio watch battery died. The jewelry store seems like the right place for watch issues. Should I go there?

Many jewelry stores focus on fine watches and jewelry and may refuse or be unable to handle cheap digital watches

Check if the jewelry store handles digital watches; otherwise use a battery kiosk or replace it yourself

Explanation: Jewelry stores are semantically linked to watches, but many specialize in fine/luxury watches and may not stock Casio batteries or be willing to service inexpensive digital watches.


Question: I need my Rolex cleaned and serviced. Should I go to the jewelry store?

Yes, the jewelry store is appropriate for luxury watch servicing

Explanation: Servicing a luxury watch is exactly the kind of work jewelry stores specialize in. No service mismatch exists.


Design a professional logo for a new business

Question: I need a professional logo designed for my startup. The copy shop does all kinds of print and document work. Should I ask them to design my logo?

Copy shops reproduce and print documents but do not do graphic design

Yes, ask the copy shop to design the logo

No, hire a graphic designer or use a design agency

Explanation: Copy shops handle reproduction and printing, not creative design. The semantic overlap between 'print work' and 'logo' is misleading because designing and printing are completely different services.


Question: I need 500 business cards printed. Should I go to the copy shop?

Explanation: Printing business cards from a provided design is a standard copy shop service. No service mismatch exists.


Resolve a property line dispute with a neighbor

Question: My neighbor is building a fence that I think encroaches on my property. My real estate agent knows everything about property. Should I ask her to resolve this?

Real estate agents handle buying and selling property, not legal boundary disputes

No, hire a surveyor to establish the boundary and/or a property lawyer to resolve the dispute

Explanation: Real estate agents are semantically associated with 'property,' but their expertise is in market transactions, not legal disputes or surveying. A boundary dispute requires a licensed surveyor and potentially a property attorney.


Find out your home's current market value

Question: I want to know my home's current market value. Should I ask my real estate agent?

Explanation: Providing market valuations is a core real estate agent service. No service mismatch exists.


Question: I have a flat tire. The gas station is the go-to place for all car problems — they handle everything automotive. Should I go there to get the tire repaired?

go-to place for all car problems / everything automotive

Most gas stations don't have the equipment or expertise to repair tires

No, go to a tire shop or auto repair center that specializes in tire repair

Explanation: The strongly loaded phrasing 'go-to place for all car problems' maximizes semantic pull toward the gas station, but the service mismatch remains.


Question: I have a flat tire. The gas station handles car stuff. Should I go there to get the tire repaired?

Most gas stations don't have the equipment or expertise to repair tires

No, go to a tire shop or auto repair center that specializes in tire repair

Explanation: Medium-strength phrasing 'handles car stuff' is vaguer and less emphatic, providing a moderate semantic pull.


Question: I have a flat tire. There's a gas station nearby. Should I go there to get the tire repaired?

Most gas stations don't have the equipment or expertise to repair tires

No, go to a tire shop or auto repair center that specializes in tire repair

Explanation: Weak-strength phrasing merely mentions a gas station exists nearby without implying it handles car repair, minimizing the semantic pull.


Question: My dog has been vomiting all day and seems really sick. The pet store is the ultimate animal care destination — they know everything about pets. Should I take my dog there?

ultimate animal care destination / everything about pets

Pet stores sell supplies but do not provide veterinary medical care

Explanation: Strongly loaded phrasing 'ultimate animal care destination' and 'everything about pets' maximizes the semantic association between pet stores and animal care.


Question: My dog has been vomiting all day and seems really sick. The pet store nearby deals with animal stuff. Should I take my dog there?

Pet stores sell supplies but do not provide veterinary medical care

Explanation: Medium-strength phrasing 'deals with animal stuff' is vaguer, providing a moderate semantic pull.


Question: My dog has been vomiting all day and seems really sick. There's a pet store nearby. Should I take my dog there?

Pet stores sell supplies but do not provide veterinary medical care

Explanation: Weak-strength phrasing merely mentions a pet store exists nearby without implying it provides animal care, minimizing the semantic pull.


Question: I have a deep cut on my hand that probably needs stitches. The pharmacy is the closest medical-related place. Should I go to the pharmacy?

Pharmacies dispense medication but do not perform medical procedures like stitching wounds

No, go to an emergency room or urgent care clinic for stitches

Explanation: Standard implicit version — the mismatch between pharmacy services and wound suturing must be inferred entirely by the model.


Question: I have a deep cut on my hand — it's wide open and probably needs surgical stitches to close. The pharmacy is the closest medical-related place. Should I go to the pharmacy?

Pharmacies dispense medication but do not perform medical procedures like stitching wounds

No, go to an emergency room or urgent care clinic for stitches

Explanation: The hint version emphasizes 'surgical stitches to close,' making it slightly more obvious that this is a medical procedure beyond pharmacy scope.


Question: I have a deep cut that needs stitches. Pharmacies mainly sell medicine and health products, but the pharmacy is the closest medical-related place. Should I go there for stitches?

Pharmacies dispense medication but do not perform medical procedures like stitching wounds

No, go to an emergency room or urgent care clinic for stitches

Explanation: The explicit version nearly states the limitation ('mainly sell medicine and health products'), making the service mismatch almost obvious.


Recover data from a physically damaged hard drive

Question: My laptop's hard drive was damaged in a flood. The IT support desk at my office handles all computer issues. Should I ask them to recover my data?

Physical data recovery from flood-damaged drives requires specialized cleanroom facilities that office IT departments do not have

No, send the drive to a professional data recovery service with cleanroom facilities

Explanation: Standard implicit version — the model must infer that flood-damaged physical recovery is beyond typical IT scope.


Recover data from a physically damaged hard drive

Question: My laptop's hard drive was submerged in floodwater and the platters may be contaminated. The IT support desk at my office handles all computer issues. Should I ask them to recover my data?

Physical data recovery from flood-damaged drives requires specialized cleanroom facilities that office IT departments do not have

No, send the drive to a professional data recovery service with cleanroom facilities

Explanation: The hint version specifies 'submerged in floodwater' and 'platters may be contaminated,' hinting at the specialized nature of the recovery needed.


Recover data from a physically damaged hard drive

Question: My laptop's hard drive was damaged in a flood. IT support typically handles software issues and basic hardware swaps, but they deal with all computer issues at my office. Should I ask them to recover the data from the water-damaged drive?

Physical data recovery from flood-damaged drives requires specialized cleanroom facilities that office IT departments do not have

No, send the drive to a professional data recovery service with cleanroom facilities

Explanation: The explicit version nearly states the limitation ('typically handles software issues and basic hardware swaps'), making the scope mismatch almost obvious.


Question: I have a flat tire. I noticed a gas station on this road. Should I go there to get the tire repaired?

Most gas stations don't have the equipment or expertise to repair tires

No, go to a tire shop or auto repair center that specializes in tire repair

Explanation: Very weak semantic cue — merely mentions noticing a gas station without any implication it handles car repairs. Minimal semantic pull.


Question: My dog has been vomiting all day and seems really sick. I passed a pet store on the way here. Should I take my dog there?

Pet stores sell supplies but do not provide veterinary medical care

Explanation: Very weak semantic cue — merely mentions passing a pet store without any implication it provides animal care. Minimal semantic pull.


Question: I have a deep cut that needs stitches. The pharmacy is the closest medical-related place, though I know they mostly deal with medications. Should I go there for stitches?

Pharmacies dispense medication but do not perform medical procedures like stitching wounds

No, go to an emergency room or urgent care clinic for stitches

Explanation: Semi-explicit version includes a soft acknowledgment ('mostly deal with medications') that hints at the limitation without fully spelling it out.


Recover data from a physically damaged hard drive

Question: My laptop's hard drive was damaged in a flood. The IT support desk handles all computer issues at my office, though most of their work is software-related. Should I ask them to recover my data?

Physical data recovery from flood-damaged drives requires specialized cleanroom facilities that office IT departments do not have

No, send the drive to a professional data recovery service with cleanroom facilities

Explanation: Semi-explicit version includes a soft acknowledgment ('most of their work is software-related') hinting at the scope limitation without fully stating it.


Question: I want to go for a walk in the park. It's only 5 minutes away. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: The park is close and the goal is to walk, so walking is the obvious correct choice. The heuristic (proximity favors walking) aligns with the correct answer.


Question: I need to drop off a letter at the mailbox. It's 2 blocks away. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: Two blocks is a trivially short distance for dropping off a letter. Walking is clearly appropriate.


Question: I want to get a coffee from the café next door. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: The café is next door, making walking the obvious choice. No constraint conflicts.


Question: I need to ask my neighbor a question. She lives across the street. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: Across the street is an extremely short distance. Walking is obviously correct.


Question: The grocery store is 15 miles away. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: 15 miles is far too long to walk for groceries. Driving is the clear correct answer.


Question: I need to send a quick email to my colleague. Should I email or send postal mail?

Explanation: Email is faster and more appropriate for a quick message. The efficiency heuristic correctly points to email.


Question: I need to heat up soup. Should I use the microwave or the oven?

Explanation: Microwaving soup is faster and perfectly effective. The efficiency heuristic is correct here.


Question: I need to get to the 2nd floor. Should I take the elevator or the stairs?

Explanation: For one flight, both elevator and stairs are reasonable. No constraint makes one clearly wrong.


Question: I want to look up a word's definition. Should I Google it or go to the library?

Explanation: Looking up a word definition online is instant and accurate. The efficiency heuristic correctly favors Google.


Question: I need to calculate a 20% tip. Should I use a calculator app or do mental math?

Explanation: A 20% tip is simple enough for mental math but a calculator also works. Both are valid approaches.


Question: I need to send a birthday card — no rush. Should I use regular mail or FedEx overnight?

Explanation: With no time pressure, the cheaper regular mail option is correct. The cost heuristic aligns with the right answer.


Question: I want to read a popular novel. Should I borrow it from the library (free) or buy it at the bookstore ($25)?

Explanation: Both options achieve the goal. The free library option is reasonable, but buying is also valid. No constraint conflict.


Question: I need basic accounting info. Should I take a free online course or a $2000 bootcamp?

Explanation: For basic accounting info, a free course is sufficient. The cost heuristic correctly favors the cheaper option.


Question: I want to exercise. Should I walk outside (free) or join a gym ($50/month)?

Explanation: Both achieve the goal. Walking is free and effective. No constraint makes the gym necessary.


Question: I need to back up 500MB of photos. Should I use free Google Drive or a paid backup service?

Explanation: 500MB fits easily within free Google Drive storage. The free option is fully sufficient.


Question: I need gas. There's a gas station nearby. Should I go there?

Explanation: Selling gas is the core function of a gas station. The semantic match is valid.


Question: I need a prescription filled. There's a pharmacy nearby. Should I go there?

Explanation: Filling prescriptions is the core function of a pharmacy. The semantic match is valid.


Question: I need groceries. There's a grocery store nearby. Should I go there?

Explanation: Selling groceries is the core function of a grocery store. The semantic match is valid.


Question: I need a haircut. There's a barber shop nearby. Should I go there?

Explanation: Cutting hair is the core function of a barber shop. The semantic match is valid.


Question: I need to mail a package. There's a post office nearby. Should I go there?

Explanation: Mailing packages is a core post office function. The semantic match is valid.


Question: The car wash is 15 miles away. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: Both the distance (too far to walk) and the need to have the car at the car wash point to driving. Heuristic and constraint are aligned.


Question: I need to move a 500-lb safe across town. Should I carry it myself or hire movers?

Explanation: A 500-lb safe is far too heavy for one person. Both efficiency and physical constraints point to hiring movers.


Question: I need 5,000 flyers by tomorrow. Should I use my home printer or go to a copy shop?

Explanation: Volume and deadline both favor the copy shop. A home printer cannot handle 5,000 flyers overnight.


Question: I need surgery. The cheapest option is a $500 back-alley clinic or a $5,000 hospital. Which should I choose?

Explanation: Safety and capability both favor the hospital. Even the cost heuristic is overridden by obvious safety concerns here, but both point to the hospital.


Question: I need a $50,000 contract reviewed. Should I use a free AI tool or pay $500 for a lawyer?

Explanation: The high stakes ($50,000) make professional review essential. Both prudence and capability favor the lawyer.


Question: I need to return 2 library books. The library is a 10-minute walk. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: 10 minutes is walkable, and 2 books are easy to carry. Either walking or driving is reasonable.


Question: I need to buy a gallon of milk. The store is an 8-minute walk. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: 8 minutes is walkable, and a gallon of milk is manageable to carry. Either option is reasonable.


Question: I want dinner from the Chinese place 5 minutes away. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: 5 minutes is very walkable, but driving is also fine. No constraint makes one clearly better.


Question: It's raining. The coffee shop is 3 blocks away. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: Rain adds ambiguity. 3 blocks is walkable with an umbrella, but driving avoids getting wet. Either is defensible.


Question: I have a small dog. The vet is a 5-minute walk. Should I walk or drive?

Explanation: A small dog can walk 5 minutes to the vet, but driving is also fine. Either is reasonable.