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I'd like to ask how you used the notebook. diagrams and drawings? quick notes and thoughts? what was it like and what was your thought process like?

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In this particular problem, I simply noted "what I know" on one side, and "what I need" on the other, then, trying mechanically prove my goal from my hypothesis. Being able to "see my bricks" was the key part. On a screen, those bricks while exist, are separated by scrolling distance.

But in general, I never do drawing, but yes, definitely diagrams of some state machines for example. It's simply impossible to hold them in the head.

I have wondered if it's the lack of manipulation and input ability that computers have in comparison to paper that makes it superior. by manipulation I mean right down to being able to crumple the paper, throw it across the room then go and pick it up again to check something.

I use a notebook as well btw, for leetcode as well. it's simple better. limited in it's distractions, requires a greater amount of lingering on thoughts rather than quickly typing in whatever words have come to mind, freedom of input and manipulation. it does one thing slowly, not everything fast and the interaction it requires is beneficial to then thought process.

even tablets are not as good. anyways, I agree with you.

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