5 replies to this topic

[TheCompBoy]

Just thought it would be fun to see how other people do when they try to solve some problem in their code or create some new Algorithm.

My best ways is:
1.Pen & Paper draw and write the whole idea down.
2.Staring into the wall OR Look out the window
3.Take a walk outside.

Whats ur best ways that work for you when you need to solve something?

[Mowk]

I find doing anything else helps. Taking the dog for a walk :)
I also get tons of ideas and stuff before I fall asleep, but that's kindof off topic.

[RhetoricalRuvim]

Mowk said:

I also get tons of ideas and stuff before I fall asleep, but that's kindof off topic.

A lot of good ideas I came up with I got at times when I tried falling asleep; then I'd get up and write them down, and then I'd usually be too excited to fall asleep for probably another hour or so.

* * *

As for writing programs, in the past, I have tried a few things:

• Plan the program out on paper, then get to writing it.
  
• Build a model (from cardboard, paper clips, etc.) representing what the program would work with. That, or a diagram of the subject of a function's duty.
  
• For quicker functions, etc., that don't require much work, I would get right to the code.
  
• The problem with #3 is that I'd usually forget something when I write the code, and it won't work. To make that better, I realized that I should write down, or at least think about, everything I would need to include, check for, etc., before writing the code.

* * *

To solve some problem, I usually either use debugging, or I try proofreading and revising the code, or a combination of both.

[WingedPanther]

One thing I find ALWAYS helps, in math or programming, is diving into details. Working through a problem by hand, getting small pieces working, etc.

[wim DC]

Since I usually figure stuff out the moment I wake up - I get awesome ideas when I'm asleep apparently... :c-snooze:

[Alexander]

A fresh mind always helps, I've come across more than a dozen "Oh.. Duh." moments when I lay my head against the pillow. The only issue is remembering the night before. What were we talking about?