You're navigating a Computer Science career. What time-wasting activities should you steer clear of?

- ⛔ Multitasking can significantly reduce productivity and lead to more errors. Focus on one task at a time to ensure high-quality work. - 🕰️ Limit attendance to meetings that directly impact your work. Use asynchronous communication for status updates when possible. - 📱 Limit the use of social media during work hours to stay focused on your tasks. - 🗂️ Avoid Overcomplicating Simple Tasks: Use simple, effective solutions instead of overengineering, which can waste time and resources. - 📚 Set time limits for research to avoid spending excessive time finding the perfect solution.

Essa visão sobre a multitarefa é extremamente válida, especialmente no campo da ciência da computação. A natureza do trabalho de um profissional dessa área frequentemente envolve a resolução de problemas complexos que exigem concentração e pensamento crítico. Tentar dividir a atenção entre várias tarefas pode resultar em erros que são difíceis de identificar e corrigir posteriormente. A multitarefa, além de aumentar a chance de erros, pode diminuir a qualidade do trabalho final, pois não permite a profundidade de foco necessária para resolver problemas intricados.

Multitasking, often perceived as a hallmark of efficiency, can undermine productivity by diluting focus and increasing error rates. In fields like Computer Science, where precision and depth are critical, dedicating uninterrupted time to a single task enhances both accuracy and quality. By concentrating on one problem at a time, you not only minimize the cognitive load associated with constant task-switching but also allow for deeper engagement and more thoughtful problem-solving. This focused approach leads to more robust solutions and fosters a greater sense of accomplishment, ultimately contributing to a more effective and satisfying work process.

When there are too many things on your plate then comes two side of the story - 1. Jack of all Trades 2. Missing out minute things on the trades you operate Define your primary goals and be on the wheels!

The only such thing as a “time-wasting activity” is something where you gain less than the cost of doing it. The very premise of this thread is far too narrow, just about anything can be a valuable activity to partake in as long as it’s done in mindful moderation. The real question should be “how can I diagnose the value vs the cost of doing something”, and while that will always be subjective, you’ve been given every tool you need to do that analysis with a CS background, treat your schedule like a function to optimize. All that’s left then is the real answer to almost any question: be honest. It only works if you *honestly* evaluate the cost/value of something. That one is entirely on you.

In the dynamic realm of Computer Science, perfectionism can be counterproductive, stalling progress and delaying valuable feedback. Embracing a 'good enough' mindset encourages timely delivery and iterative refinement, fostering adaptability and responsiveness to real-world needs. Prioritizing functional solutions over idealized perfection enables rapid deployment and continuous improvement, which is crucial in a field characterized by rapid change and evolving requirements. This pragmatic approach not only accelerates project timelines but also enhances collaboration and innovation, as frequent iterations and feedback loops lead to more practical and impactful results.

Totally agreed, Instead of spending hours creating an overly complex solution, a pragmatic one could create a 'good enough' version quickly that fulfills the need, then iterate based on user feedback. For example, Imagine building a to-do list app. A perfectionist might get stuck on an elegant data structure, while a pragmatic coder could launch a basic version with core features, then improvise based on user feedback on what tasks they actually use the app for. This iterative approach is key in CS.

Perfect is subjective. Code is always changing, its never perfect. In initial MVP, trying to be perfect is like shooting yourself in the foot.

In computer science or tech per se as long as your code runs fast and with no bugs it is ok it doesn’t need to look perfect it just has to work well

Computer science is very vast and no matter how good and experienced a person is, achieving perfection is just a dream. There might be the days where you as a beginner can solve a complex problem or may be an expert can stuck in a basic problem. Always try to give your best and think logically but never try to achieve perfectionism.

100% - Constant learning in your domain can elevate you! - This helps you strategise your current strengths - Run more towards forecasted vision - Build a better and safer environment

Set scope, objective and solution ! Keep it simple. You wont overwhelmed in papers, algorithms, and git or hf :D Start your thought by writing down simple equation/method in notebook (in jupyter notebook is better)

Continuous learning is crucial in Computer Science, but it's important to avoid getting stuck in an endless cycle of tutorials and courses. Focus on learning that directly supports your current projects or career goals. By prioritizing relevant education, you can apply new skills immediately, reinforcing your knowledge through practical experience and avoiding time spent on less relevant topics. This approach helps you stay updated while maintaining productivity and progress in your field.

Of course, continuous learning is a vital part of expanding your computer science skills and becoming well-rounded. However, there is such a thing as a "tutorial loop" where students are stuck in an endless loop of tutorials and courses. Prioritizing project-based learning is the most effective way to utilize your time, ensuring you focus on relevant topics and apply your knowledge immediately. This approach reinforces learning through practical experience and helps you become a well-rounded student or applicant.

Overthinking will result overplanning. Don't overthink what're you going to do. Start with simple one-way plan, and when its done review the result and start planning the repetition.

Planning in good. But always remember that the world is a dynamic and ever-changing place. Have a long term vision and set short term goals in accordance. If the facts on the ground change significantly, do consider adapting your plans. And remember, keep it simple.

Humans usually tend to over plan. This thing is applicable when we start learning. Computer science . For instance we plan like learning 4 -5 languages and after 2 days we gave up. Despite we should plan and try to learn a small topic or concept every day and in this way we can keep learning and improving ourselves.

Planning plays a vital role in your personal and professional growth. Over planning of things or task makes you to deliver more in less time and on the other hand it forces you to deliver much in less time which is way beyond one’s capability. Instead of over planning tasks, complete a task in reasonable time frame makes you to deliver quality of work

Nowadays, we are surrounded by Distractions such as social media, procrastinations, showing off etc. Keeping an eye on your goal and consistently working towards itself is becoming difficult. For handling this we should follow some Key Rules. Out of that one rule is... 5 Minute Rule: If any task requires only minimal time as 5 minutes, finish that task first and lighten your to do bucket list a little. Believe me, it really helps a lot... Try it...

Avoiding distractions is a major concern nowadays in every field people are working in. However, someone said that it only takes 21 days to make something a habit. While I have tried that, I do say it works. However, making a simple subtle plan like alternating work with either checking emails, checking notifications, reading news, etc. is something I like to do. This makes sure I work for several straight hours and then take a small break without complicating in my head the time at which I should take a break.

To stay focused, avoid distractions like notifications and social media. Set clear goals, use a timer, and work in a quiet space. Turn off notifications and check messages only at set times. Fewer distractions help you get more done and work better. But remember, short breaks and small distractions can also refresh your mind and boost creativity.

Computer Science and Software Development deal with a lot of problem-solving. While people work for several straight hours, continuously working the mind to generate new ideas or solve problems is not possible. However, alternating work with some breaks definitely helps. Additionally, going off the screen after work is very necessary so that the mind gets some time to relax and prepare for other things or begin a rush of new ideas. Finally, before going to work, a good practice I feel is to wake up a little early and have your favorite beverage or drink while enjoying nature, which not only helps relax your brain but also soothes your eyes giving a headstart enough to make your day awesome.

Avoid burnout like you avoid Monday meetings! 🚫 Set boundaries, take breaks, and get your beauty sleep 😴—because nobody’s productive on coffee fumes and stress. ☕️😅 Learn to say “no” to extra work; your sanity will thank you. 🙅♂️ Remember, you’re not a superhero 🦸♀️—you’re human. Pace yourself to keep crushing it without crashing! 💪

Trust me when I say sticking to a screen for almost 9 hours every day and debugging same code in order to find a fix is not an easy task.it is pretty common to feel burnout or stressed. To avoid such situations, it is very important to have a proper routine and try to find work-life balance. Exercise, play sports ,watch good movies and spend time with family

In coding and debugging, every new error is a smile for me. However, the smiles can last long enough without noticing. It is important that after every smile, I take a break and after the last smile, I CTR Alt Delete go out and engage in other activities that do not require internet. It has worked for me.