Dating Theory Calculator (37% Rule)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 37% rule?

Optimal stopping strategy: evaluate the first N/e (~37%) of candidates without choosing, then commit to the next candidate who beats everyone seen so far. Gives ~37% chance of picking the absolute best.

Why 37%?

Calculus shows the success probability of this strategy is maximized when the sample size is N/e ≈ 0.368·N. As N grows, the optimal fraction converges to 1/e ≈ 36.8%.

Does it really work for dating?

It's a useful heuristic, not a law. Real life lets you revisit, judge on multiple criteria, and adjust standards - all of which alter the math.

Provided by AllCalculators.io
Free online calculators for everyday. No registration required.

Estimates for informational purposes only.

Important Disclaimer: Estimates for informational purposes only.

This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are based on assumptions and may not reflect actual outcomes. Consult qualified professionals in relevant fields before making important decisions based on these results.

JavaScript is required to use the interactive calculator above. The questions and answers below remain readable without JavaScript.

How This Calculator Works

The secretary problem (also called the marriage problem or dating problem): you see N candidates one at a time and must commit or reject each on the spot. The optimal strategy is to evaluate the first N/e (about 37%) without choosing anyone, then commit to the first candidate better than all you've seen so far. Enter N and the calculator returns how many to reject as sample.

Worked Example

If you plan to seriously date 10 people over your life, the optimal strategy is to date the first 4 (= ceil(10/e) = ceil(3.68)) and never settle, then commit to the first person who exceeds all four. Expected probability of finding your true best: about 37%. With 100 candidates, reject the first 37 and then commit - same 37% chance.

Common Mistakes

Mistaking 37% as the success probability - it's both the sample fraction and the asymptotic success probability, but those are different concepts.

Applying it when you can't commit on the spot (revisiting allowed changes the math).

Forgetting that the strategy assumes you can rank candidates against each other, not just absolutely.

Picking too soon (lower success) or too late (you may run out).

Tips & FAQ

Where does e come from? Calculus: maximize the probability that the chosen candidate is the best, and the optimal sample fraction converges to 1/e as N grows.

Real life caveat: This assumes you have a fixed N and must commit on the spot - real dating allows revisiting. The 37% rule is still a useful heuristic, not a law.

Hiring? Same math - hence "secretary problem." Interview ~37% of applicants then hire the next one who tops them all.

Dating Theory Calculator (37% Rule)

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Math Calculators