What type of decision-making is characterized by a commonly understood sequence of behavior without reliance on existing data?

The correct answer is script. This type of decision-making refers to a predefined sequence of actions or thoughts that people follow based on social norms or past experiences. Scripts guide behavior in familiar contexts where the outcomes are likely predictable. For example, when ordering food at a restaurant, individuals typically follow a script: choosing an item, notifying the server, etc.

Scripts are beneficial in reducing cognitive load since they don't require extensive deliberation or reliance on existing data, making them efficient for routine tasks and decisions where prior experiences guide behavior. This contrasts with other types of decision-making, which may involve more complex analysis or data reliance. For instance, analytic decision-making requires examining data and logical reasoning, while heuristics often involve rules of thumb based on previous outcomes. Conceptual decision-making leans heavily on abstract thinking and creative problem-solving, which is not how scripts operate. Thus, the nature of scripts specifically fits the criteria outlined in the question, emphasizing automatic and familiar behavioral sequences.