The practice of first developing a clear and precise definition of a process without regard for efficiency, and then using it as a guide and a test in exploring equivalent processes possessing other characteristics, such as greater efficiency, is very common in mathematics. It is a very fruitful practice which should not be blighted by premature emphasis on efficiency in computer execution.


§5.4 - Notation as a Tool of Thought (1979)

Kenneth E. Iverson Quotes

The practice of first developing a clear and precise definition of a process without regard for efficiency, and then using it as a guide and a test...

The practice of first developing a clear and precise definition of a process without regard for efficiency, and then using it as a guide and a test...

The practice of first developing a clear and precise definition of a process without regard for efficiency, and then using it as a guide and a test...

The practice of first developing a clear and precise definition of a process without regard for efficiency, and then using it as a guide and a test...