Calculate& Decide

Decision tool

Weighted Decision Matrix

Build a compact matrix with multiple options and criteria, then calculate normalized weighted totals for each option.

Updated

Judgment still matters: Decision tools organize your information. They do not replace personal judgment or qualified professional advice.

Build your comparison

Use the first input in each column for a criterion name and the second for its weight. Score every option from 0 to 10.

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What the score means

Build a compact matrix with multiple options and criteria, then calculate normalized weighted totals for each option. A higher total means an option fits the weights and scores you entered more closely; it is not an absolute command.

Formula used

Total for each option = Σ(weight × score). Percentage = total ÷ (Σ weights × 10) × 100.

Step-by-step calculation

  1. Name options and define distinct criteria where a higher score always means a better fit.
  2. Set each importance weight from 0 to 10.
  3. Score all options from 0 to 10 using the same evidence standard.
  4. Multiply each score by its weight, add the points, and normalize against the maximum possible total.
  5. Change uncertain values to see whether the leading option is stable.

Worked example

For three suppliers, criteria might be cost, quality, and delivery. Giving quality a weight of 9 makes each quality score contribute more than a delivery score weighted 5.

Assumptions and limitations

  • All scores use 0 as worst and 10 as best.
  • Weights use 0 as irrelevant and 10 as most important.
  • Criteria are sufficiently distinct to avoid double-counting.

How to use this tool

  1. Define the decision in one sentence.
  2. Use criteria that matter to the decision and do not overlap.
  3. Set weights before looking at which option benefits.
  4. Calculate, then review the most influential criteria and test sensitivity.
  5. Record important facts or uncertainties outside the score.

Common mistakes

  • Using a low number to mean good for cost but a high number to mean good elsewhere.
  • Adding too many weak criteria that dilute the important ones.
  • Ignoring uncertainty when two totals are close.

Frequently asked questions

How many options can I add?

This version supports two to eight options and up to ten criteria.

Do weights need to total 100?

No. They are relative 0–10 importance ratings and are normalized automatically.

Can the matrix make a professional decision for me?

No. It is a structure for comparing your inputs, not professional advice.

Methodology

Scores are calculated locally and text fields are rendered as text, not HTML. Read the decision-tool methodology and report an error.

Published and reviewed .