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mushroom comments on Open thread, September 9-15, 2013 - Less Wrong Discussion

3 Post author: Metus 09 September 2013 04:50AM

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Comment author: [deleted] 10 September 2013 12:00:54AM 2 points [-]

Popular science books are often heavily padded. I recommend skipping any sections that are just rehashing the main idea. For some books (maybe even most books) this can mean reading the first few chapters and skipping the rest.

Comment author: passive_fist 10 September 2013 12:51:05AM 4 points [-]

I'd actually go even further and recommend to avoid pop science books altogether, and replace them with introductory books, lecture notes from reputable lecturers, and video lectures on subjects.

Comment author: Torello 10 September 2013 02:02:06AM 1 point [-]

I know there are lists of the best texts on this site, so I guess I could use that to find reputable materials.

I guess ideally I'd like to use pop science books to introduce me to topics in a light and entertaining way, but I think you make a good point that if I'm going for efficiency the ways you've suggested are better.

Comment author: Torello 10 September 2013 01:59:44AM 1 point [-]

I've noticed that they can be pretty repetitive, but honestly I think it's good for me to hear it over and over, so I remember it and integrate it.

I guess what I'm looking for is a way to integrate/remember faster or better so the rehashing isn't necessary.