Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions – Brian Christian
‘Algorithms to Live By’ by Brian Christian provides valuable insights into how computer algorithms can be applied to various aspects of daily life, enhancing decision-making processes and improving overall efficiency. The book combines principles of computer science with behavioural research, helping readers make more informed decisions in diverse areas of life.
Optimizing Time Management
Explore the concept of optimal stopping, which can be applied to time management, job hunting, or finding a romantic partner.
The most effective strategy involves spending 37% of an allotted time on research and selecting the option that outperforms the gathered knowledge.
Exploiting Randomness
Embrace randomness to tackle problems and explore novel solutions in life.
Randomness can lead to unexpected opportunities and unlock creative potentials.
Collaboration and Game Theory
Navigate through social interactions by implementing the principles of game theory, such as tit-for-tat or win-win strategies, establishing trust, and promoting cooperation in group dynamics.
Dealing with Intractability
Confront complex and intractable problems by relying on heuristics, which are simple, practical strategies that can provide quick, satisfying solutions without requiring exhaustive analysis.
Overcoming Overfitting
Avoid overfitting or excessive streamlining by maintaining a delicate balance between simplicity and complexity in decision-making.
Overfitting can lead to problems by making rigid decisions based on incomplete information.
Making Choices
Harness the power of binary search to make faster decisions when presented with a range of choices.
Binary search is an efficient method of narrowing down options by creating subsets and focusing on the most relevant information.
The Power of Caching
Leverage the concept of caching to manage clutter, mental or physical.
Caching is a technique that helps in storing and retrieving vital information, enabling individuals to declutter their minds and environments.
Networking Wisdom
Understand the benefits of strong ties and weak ties in networking, where strong ties offer support and reliability while weak ties can facilitate new connections and help discover unexplored opportunities.
Scheduling and Prioritization
Utilize the Earliest Due Date (EDD) rule to prioritize tasks and prevent procrastination.
EDD requires completing tasks in order of their due dates, which minimizes overall lateness and improves productivity.
Efficient Sorting
Implement sorting strategies like QuickSort and merge sort to organize tasks and responsibilities, allowing for better allocation of resources, improved focus, and streamlined processes.
