Subj : Re: programmer concentration
To   : comp.programming
From : gswork
Date : Thu Jul 21 2005 02:07 am



beliavsky@aol.com wrote:
> The recent thread "Eliminating distractions while programming" has been
> interesting. I have some questions along the same lines:
>
> (1) What is a good way for a programmer to spend his time when he must
> take a break in coding while waiting for a program to compile and run?
> It's fun to spend that minute or even 15 seconds browsing the web
> (including Usenet), but it's too easy for the minute to become 10
> minutes. Also, one's train of thought is disrupted. I think it's most
> productive to continue to think about the prorgram even during coding
> breaks, but WHAT should you think about?

If the 'break' is a 60 second compile i'd agree - though really
watching the compile and then reviewing the (verbose) warnings and
other comments might reveal something that will save time later.

> (2) For how long should a good programmer be able to concentrate in one
> stretch? I'm afraid that since all my computers have become connected
> to the internet, my "stretches" have shrunk to 15 minutes. Maybe it's
> best for some people to program on a computer without an Internet
> connection?

It can be if the distraction proves too much!

Generally a single sitting of focussed attention can last from 15 -150
minutes or more, but around 30-45 mins is reasonable, followed by a
step back, quick review of what you did etc.   Stoicically staying with
it for too long tends to have diminishing and eventually negative
returns.  Only the most fascinating problem, one you feel highly
motivated to resolve, can keep you in the zone for the longer stretches
of time.

a few solid breaks away from programming and the pc all together should
be part of each day too.  A nice walk, for instance.   A good break is
the best debugger!

.