Simplicity and Occam's razor

"All other things being equal, the simplest solution is the best." - Occam's Razor (William of Ockham).

I always build my Excel spreadsheets by starting with the simplest formula, then adding complex logics and calculations as needs arise. I usually get my calculations right faster this way. If I try to go straight to the final formula, I'm more likely to make mistakes and end up spending more time troubleshooting the formulas.

"Things should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler." - Albert Einstein.

While it is possible to memorize complex ideas, try to learn the basic principles first. By understanding the principles, you can build on them and understand, rather than just memorize, complex ideas. I learn things best this way.

"Our lives are frittered away by detail; simplify, simplify." - Henry David Thoreau.

When planning something complex, break it down. Simplify. A seemingly overwhelming task can be broken into manageable pieces.

"Simplicity means the achievement of maximum effect with minimum means." - Koichi Kawana.

When you have a complex problem, try to simplify it to its core, then find a simple solution. The simplest solutions are frequently the most effective solutions.

"Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." — Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

Reference:

• Wikipedia:
• Occam's razor.
  
• Simplicity.