What is the procedure where individuals compare two pictures to identify differences?

The procedure where individuals compare two pictures to identify differences is known as change detection. This cognitive process involves noticing alterations between two visual representations, which could be as simple as recognizing a missing object or a change in color or shape. Change detection relies heavily on visual memory and attention, as individuals must carefully scrutinize both images to spot differences amidst distractions or irrelevant details.

The process emphasizes how our cognitive system is capable of encoding images and maintaining a representation in memory that can be assessed against another image. This is fundamental in various applications, including problem-solving and everyday tasks that require visual comparison skills. It also highlights the importance of attention in successful detection; without focused attention, individuals may overlook even significant changes between images.

The other options relate to different concepts in cognitive psychology. Just-in-time strategy focuses on acquiring information when needed rather than retaining it in memory long-term. Pre-cueing involves signaling information in advance to direct attention, and inattentional blindness refers to failing to notice visible objects when attention is diverted elsewhere. Each of these concepts describes different mechanisms of attention and perception, underscoring why change detection is the most appropriate response in this context.