In four studies, we examined people's strategies when deciding between
multiple routes of equivalent length in way-finding tasks. The results
reveal the important role of continuing behavior when faced with a
choice from multiple viable routes. After affirming the existence of
asymmetric preferences for alternatives (Studies 1 and 2), we observed
that variations of simple known-environment mazes supported action
continuation as prevailing process over alternative strategies such as
preference for long initial path segments, paths with a least deviating
angle, and a modified hill climbing strategy (Study 3). Moreover,
asymmetric preferences disappeared with the absence of initial behavior
to inform subsequent decision making (Study 4). Results are discussed
within the context of decision making, navigation strategies, and
everyday life path finding.