<p>There are a lot of variables to consider. . .like:</p>
<p>Selectivity of the ED school and other schools on the list
Exactly where your D is in the stat range
Acceptability (per your D) of the other schools on her list
Importance of financial aid packages
Ability to turn out an excellent app for the (earlier) ED deadlines
Ds history of making informed choices, incl. "sticking with" informed choices</p>
<p>Importance of these factors and their ranking will vary by situation. I do believe that ED has the most utility for kids in the middle of the stat range, as kids in the higher range are less likely to need the boost and those in the lower range may not get enough boost to get in, particularly at highly-selective institutions.</p>