Normative models are frameworks used to describe how decisions should be made based on certain criteria or standards. These models provide guidelines for optimal decision-making by outlining ideal behaviors and outcomes. They often rely on mathematical principles and theories from fields like economics and psychology to establish benchmarks for rational choices. In contrast to descriptive models, which explain how decisions are actually made, normative models focus on what decisions ought to be made to achieve the best results. They are commonly applied in areas such as business, policy-making, and healthcare to improve decision quality and effectiveness.