What is a generally recognized rule of thumb that helps to achieve a goal?

The term that defines a generally recognized rule of thumb used to achieve a goal is "heuristic." Heuristics are practical problem-solving techniques derived from experience and common sense, which help individuals make quicker decisions or find solutions without having to analyze all available information. This approach is particularly useful in complex situations or when facing uncertainty, as it allows for efficient and effective decision-making.

Heuristics often simplify the decision-making process by providing approximate solutions or shortcuts, making them especially valuable in agile testing environments where rapid feedback and adaptation are crucial. This contrasts with other concepts like best practices, which refer to methods that have been shown to produce superior results, guidelines, which provide direction or advice but without the prescriptive confidence of best practices, and frameworks, which establish a more structured approach for managing processes or projects.

Thus, "heuristic" stands out as the most appropriate choice for describing a rule of thumb that aids in achieving goals, particularly in dynamic and agile contexts.