Compensatory decisions are the perfectly rational decisions that we wish we made. Perhaps we sometimes trick ourselves into believing we can actually make them.

They require identifying each attribute that contributes to the success of a decision - both positive and negative.
Each attribute with the identified set is then weighted based on how much it should impact the success of an option.
With all of the variables identified and weighted, you can then assess each option and give it a total score. They then choose the option with the highest score.

In reality, nobody figures out every dimension of import in a complex decision. Nor do they objectively rate each one out of the broader context of any given option. Without that, one cannot make a complete assessment, and there is no unbiased best choice. Compensatory decisions are splendid in theory but are laborious and subsequently impractical.