Case-based reasoning (CBR) solves a current problem by retrieving the solution to previous similar problems and altering those solutions to meet the current needs. It is based upon previous experiences and patterns of previous experiences. Humans with years of experience in a particular job and activity (e.g., a skilled paramedic arriving on an accident scene can often automatically know the best procedure to deal with a patient) use this technique to solve many of their problems. One advantage of CBR is that inexperienced people can draw on the knowledge of experienced colleagues, including ones who aren't in the organization, to solve their problems. Synonym: Reasoning by analogy.

This definition is in context to Artificial Intelligence. See more contextual defintions for Case-based Reasoning.