In game theory, when a player determines their strategy by considering the possible responses from their opponent at the end of a game, they are utilizing __________.

In game theory, when a player chooses their moves by first looking at the opponent’s likely replies at the end of the game, they are using backward induction. This method starts at the final decision point and works backward, figuring out the best move at each earlier stage. By assuming the opponent will react optimally, the player can predict the outcome of each possible move. For example, in a simple two‑move game, a player first assumes what the opponent will do in the last round, then chooses the best preceding move that leads to that outcome. This reasoning ensures the player’s strategy is consistent with the opponent’s rational responses.