Space–time tradeoff

Here, space refers to the data storage consumed in performing a given task (RAM, HDD, etc.

The utility of a given space–time tradeoff is affected by related fixed and variable costs (of, e.g., CPU speed, storage space), and is subject to diminishing returns.

Using stored knowledge or encoding stimuli reactions as "instincts" in the DNA avoids the need for "calculation" in time-critical situations.

Without indexes, time-consuming Full table scan operations are sometimes required to locate desired data.

Larger code size can be traded for higher program speed when applying loop unrolling.