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It may be said "In research, if you know what you are…

“It may be said "In research, if you know what you are doing, then you shouldn't be doing it." In a sense, if the answer turns out to be exactly what you expected, then you have learned nothing new, although you may have had your confidence increased somewhat.” quote by Richard Hamming
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“It may be said "In research, if you know what you are doing, then you shouldn't be doing it." In a sense, if the answer turns out to be exactly what you expected, then you have learned nothing new, although you may have had your confidence increased somewhat.”

Richard Hamming

About This Quote

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

Predictable results indicate lack of novel insight; true learning occurs when outcomes surprise you.

In simple terms: If you know the answer, you learn nothing new.

Key Takeaway

Seek unexpected results.

Themes

research learning uncertainty

Mood

analytical curious

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • experiments
  • hypothesis testing
  • innovation

Key Concepts

epistemology scientific method

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you design experiments that challenge assumptions?
  • When is confirmation useful?
A Different Perspective

Predictability can still be valuable for validation.

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