Tail latency is a persistent challenge for network services, with unpredictable spikes in response times due to factors such as CPU wait times and network congestion. While cost-effectiveness is often achieved through the use of shared resources, this can lead to a compromise in user experience. 

In this blog post, we examine the technique of request hedging as a solution to this problem. By understanding its benefits and limitations, we aim to provide insights into when and how this technique can be effectively utilized to build more predictable services.