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In the early 60s, you read your essays to your supervisor…

“In the early 60s, you read your essays to your supervisor rather than hand them in. I was both lazy and clever, and realised I didn't need to write essays at all, I could simply talk with some notes in front of me.” quote by David Starkey
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“In the early 60s, you read your essays to your supervisor rather than hand them in. I was both lazy and clever, and realised I didn't need to write essays at all, I could simply talk with some notes in front of me.”

David Starkey

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He discovered that speaking essays aloud with notes can replace writing them entirely, saving effort and leveraging oral skills.

In simple terms: Speaking can replace writing essays.

Key Takeaway

Try oral presentations instead of papers.

Themes

efficiency learning communication

Mood

reflective pragmatic

Type

advice personal

When to use this quote

  • lecture delivery
  • study groups
  • conference talks
  • teaching assistants

Key Concepts

oral tradition note‑taking academic practice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does speaking change your understanding?
  • When is writing still essential?
A Different Perspective

May lack depth of written analysis.

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