Accidents Quote by John Edensor Littlewood
“In presenting a mathematical argument the great thing is to give the educated reader the chance to catch on at once to the momentary point and take details for granted: two trivialities omitted can add up to an impasse). The unpractised writer, even after the dawn of a conscience, gives him no such chance; before he can spot the point he has to tease his way through a maze of symbols of which not the tiniest suffix can be skipped.”
About This Quote
Effective mathematical writing should present the core insight immediately, allowing readers to grasp the main point without getting lost in unnecessary details.
In simple terms: Clarity over complexity
Key Takeaway
Prioritize the central idea
Themes
communication
pedagogy
mathematics
clarity
precision
Mood
analytical
instructive
Type
advice
observation
When to use this quote
- teaching a concept
- writing a research paper
- preparing a lecture
- reviewing a proof
Key Concepts
argument structure
reader engagement
symbolic economy
Practical Applications
- educational material design
- academic writing guidelines
Questions to Reflect On
- How does simplifying presentation affect comprehension?
- What risks arise from omitting essential details?
![“I constantly meet people who are doubtful, generally without due reason, about their potential capacity [as mathematicians]. The first test is whether you got anything out of geometry. To have disliked or failed to get on with other [mathematical] subjects need mean nothing; much drill and…” quote by John Edensor Littlewood](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ad0/john-edensor-littlewood-23851_born_i-constantly-meet-people-who-are-doubtfu_1210950.jpg)
