The authors present the DALSTRA model of decision making, a descriptive statement of ways individuals or groups respond to different kinds of decision-making problems they encounter. Decision making is viewed in two phases: the decision-making antecedents (whether to decide, how to decide) and the modes of decision making (Chance/Impulse, Habit/Custom/Tradition/Policy, and Data/Values). Three factors are brought to bear on whether to decide or not to decide: problem values (how important/urgent is the problem); problem bounds (constraints on successful solutions); and problem willingness (desire to respond). The answers to these three "checks" affect the choice of response mode, each of which contains three subprocesses--identifying and formulating alternative solutions, exploring their viability, and choosing the best solution. The Chance/Impulse mode of decision making is most frequently used with issues of little importance, in which little real influence can be brought to bear on the outcome, or in situations in which limited time or data is available for decision making. The Habit/Custom/Tradition/Policy mode is used when the decision to be made is of some significance to the individual and is a decision that has been and is to be faced repeatedly. The Data/Values mode is used when the problem is of great significance, and no relevant habits, customs, traditions, or policies are present that will offer a good solution. Implications for instruction are made, especially in reducing the emphasis on decision making as a purely data-based process. (MJB)