Function is not the sum of an object's parts.

Prior research shows adults believe objects exist for specialised purposes. This "one tool, one function" cognitive bias promotes efficient mastery of artefact function but could mean individuals overlook an object's suitability for other functions. Across three studies, the initial trajectory of learning about functions was investigated to better depict when adults are constrained versus open in the assignment of functions to objects. Studies 1 and 2 employed an online format to deemphasise social expectations and explore how rapidly adults make exclusive tool-function pairings. Participants showed fixity immediately upon learning an object's function. Study 3 confirmed this with an in-person design. Furthermore, Study 3 evaluated descriptions adults gave to known and novel objects; for known items, adults focussed on functions and failed to note physical features. Adults appear deeply compelled to attach functions to objects, but in so doing, they may be less likely to perceive an object's potential for other uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]