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But smart has to have a depth as well as a length. Some…

“But smart has to have a depth as well as a length. Some smart brushes over a problem. And some smart grinds exceeding slow, like the mills of God, and it grinds fine, and when it comes up with an answer, it has been tested.” quote by Terry Pratchett
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““But smart has to have a depth as well as a length. Some smart brushes over a problem. And some smart grinds exceeding slow, like the mills of God, and it grinds fine, and when it comes up with an answer, it has been tested.””

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

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

Intelligence must combine breadth and depth; superficial knowledge is insufficient, while thorough, slow analysis yields reliable answers.

In simple terms: Smartness needs both breadth and depth; quick fixes fail.

Key Takeaway

Balance breadth with deep analysis.

Themes

intelligence analysis learning

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • research
  • problem solving
  • education
  • decision making

Key Concepts

critical thinking philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is depth more valuable than speed?
  • How can you ensure thoroughness without paralysis?
A Different Perspective

Depth can be time‑consuming and may hinder timely action.

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